Imagine scanning a physical patient file and uploading it onto your computer, all within a few clicks. Picture sending all test results, prescriptions, and notes with just a few strokes of your fingertips. Health records have become increasingly digitized over the years, with electronic health records (EHRs) now serving as the primary repository for most healthcare providers. In theory, the new digital records would be more efficient, have seamless communication, and be more accurate than ever before. In practice, however, EHRs come with a variety of challenges. Below, our West Virginia medical malpractice attorney reviews how glitches in health records hurt patients.

Glitches in Electronic Health Records

One of the main benefits of EHRs is that they contain all patient information needed at the point of care. For example, patient data in EHRs is organized, accurate, and more complete than paper files. Physicians and other clinicians can make better-informed decisions for the benefit of their patients when presented with the most current information. 

Furthermore, EHRs are able to aggregate all patient data in one location, making it easier for clinicians to coordinate care, as well as reduce redundancy. In addition to that, EHRs allow for faster review of data, with access to test results and prescriptions being more streamlined by having all data stored in one repository. This way of storing data on electronic devices is an organized method that is more easily accessible and makes the healthcare industry more efficient.

The Dark Side of EHRs

It is important to note, however, that EHRs also have adverse effects. The two most prominent potential threats to safety with EHRs are technological glitches and copy-paste errors. When these mistakes occur, health, wellbeing, and financial losses could occur.

The Problem with Glitches in Electronic Health Records

Glitches in EHRs can occur in different ways, from data not updating or transferring in a timely manner, to systems going down and patient information not being able to be accessed. These glitches can vary in severity as well. A system crash or a data freeze during an emergency procedure could be the difference between life and death if medical staff can’t access a patient’s past medical history or records. Copying the wrong records or mismatched patient records can also be a very serious issue. Patients can also receive incorrect lab results or information that can potentially cause them to overdose on medications.

One of the major problems with EHRs is the lack of complete interoperability between systems. That is, many systems do not allow for seamless data transfer between hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems. There are still high risks that information may be incorrect or transferred incompletely when it is shared across systems.

EHRs are also vulnerable to cybersecurity issues, including ransomware and data breaches. These attacks, in addition to being financially devastating, also leave patient records and information vulnerable and inaccessible to clinicians. This can result in adverse effects such as long waits or missed procedures and operations.

Copy and Paste Errors

The use of EHRs also led to a common phenomenon of copying and pasting previously entered information or notes. Physicians in their day-to-day jobs often have to work with heavy time constraints and limited time to interact with patients. Copying and pasting previous notes, information, or diagnoses on electronic health records has become commonplace. This practice can be counterintuitive, as this activity, in most cases, can be dangerous.

Copy and paste errors in EHRs can become a problem if past information is not updated or fixed. In some cases, patients can be given a misdiagnosis or an incorrect treatment plan if their past records are not updated or recorded properly. Additionally, clinicians use EHRs to add new and pertinent information as a patient is seen; however, in cases where past notes or data have been copied and pasted, this newly acquired information may not be recorded.

The Costs of Glitches and Copy-Paste Errors

The potential danger and cost of glitches in EHRs and copy and paste errors can be high in all cases. Patient safety and well-being are at risk every time a technological issue occurs in EHRs. Copying and pasting information is incredibly common, and it becomes a problem if the copied information is not added to the record or corrected. A patient’s medical history, including diagnoses and medications, can be missed or copied incorrectly, and patients may be at a high risk of receiving incorrect information or treatment. Clinicians also have to take time to decipher and review redundant and outdated information, which could divert time away from more productive tasks or patient care.

Copy and Paste Errors and Glitches in Health Records Hurt Patients

Copy and paste errors on EHRs can result in a lot of adverse events, which can be potentially deadly to patients. Past information that is not updated, changed, or corrected can cause patients to be given the wrong medication or not be recognized as allergic to certain drugs or substances. Glitches in EHRs can also be an issue, as they can result in a backlog or loss of information. This again can result in patients being given the wrong medications or treatments, which could have deadly effects.

Harmed by Errors in Your Electronic Healthcare Records? Seek Legal Guidance from a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Right Away

The use of electronic health records, at least in theory, has numerous advantages; however, glitches and copy-and-paste errors can lead to negative consequences for patients and hospitals. It is essential to note that EHRs are becoming increasingly universal as the healthcare industry adopts technology to enhance efficiency and improve patient health. Still, if you or a loved one has been injured due to medical negligence stemming from errors related to your electronic health records, contact our office to discuss the specifics of your case.