New CMS Data Shows Increased Use of Electronic Health Records

New data released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) shows the increased use of electronic health records (EHRs) by doctors and hospitals. EHRs securely transmit information to patients and their providers in order to help manage patient care while maintaining privacy. Through the Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Program, eligible health care providers can receive incentive payments to use EHRs—about 80 percent of eligible hospitals and over 50 percent of eligible professionals are now participating in the program.

With more people online, EHRs are allowing patients better access to their health information while making it easier to schedule doctors’ visits and communicate with their providers. Further, doctors can efficiently and safely transmit information when a patient sees another provider, ensuring better patient outcomes and quality of care.

According to CMS, since the EHR Incentive Program started in 2011:

• Over 190 million electronic prescriptions were issued.
• 4.6 million patients received electronic copies of their health information.
• Patients received over 13 million reminders about appointments, required tests, or check-ups.
• Providers checked drug interactions using EHRs more than 40 million times, ensuring patient safety.

Read the CMS press release.