Rather, the data is stored on the vendor's dedicated servers. Under this system, the physician does not store the EHR data on his/her own servers. Important considerations include legal concerns (e.g., antitrust/anti-kickback issues), particularly with subsidies from hospitals, and ownership of the data if the relationship changes, such as the physician moves or no longer participates in the health insurance plan.ĭedicated hosted system. Typically the subsidizing entity's servers are utilized, rather than the physician's, so the physician does not have control over the data. Under this system, an entity with whom the physician has a relationship, such as a hospital, subsidizes the financing for the EHR. Generally speaking, there are the following three types of remotely hosted EHR systems: The data is under the control of the third party (owner of the servers where the data are stored) rather than under the control of the physician. This other entity is responsible for storing the data and would also be responsible for maintenance, security, and data backup. Under this system, the EHR data is stored on another entity's servers. Accordingly, physicians must keep the potential for harm to patients in mind and must actively manage the potential liability risks associated with EHRs. …history has shown that medical innovations are frequently accompanied by new risks. This means that in the event of a dispute (such as one involving a price dispute), the vendor can hold the data hostage. While the data remains under the control of the physician, vendors can include a disabling code in their software. ![]() In addition to purchasing the hardware (including servers) and software, the physician is responsible for maintenance, security, and data backup. Under this system, the EHR data is stored on the physician's own servers. One way to approach the various EHR systems available is to consider where the data resides, or more specifically, where the servers (on which the data is stored) are located. The first step is to understand the various types of systems. However, history has shown that medical innovations are frequently accompanied by new risks. These benefits should translate into improved quality of care and improved patient safety, which in turn, should lead to decreased professional liability claims. Are there any special issues I should consider as I move forward?ĪNSWER: The many benefits of electronic health records (EHRs)* are evident and they include comprehensive and legible records, clinical decision support such as safety alerts, and remote access to records. While I am optimistic about the prospect of streamlining the documentation process, I am also concerned about professional liability. ![]() QUESTION: The size of my medical practice has nearly doubled over the last few years, so I have decided to invest in an electronic records system. Note: The information and recommendations in this article are applicable to physicians and other healthcare professionals so “clinician” is used to indicate all treatment team members. For legal advice, contact your personal attorney. The information in this column does not constitute legal advice. ![]() Other risk management consulting companies or insurance carriers may provide different advice, and readers should take this into consideration. The answers published in this column represent those of only one risk management consulting company. (a manager of medical professional liability insurance programs with services that include risk management consultation, education and onsite risk management audits, and other resources to healthcare providers to help improve patient outcomes and reduce professional liability risk. This ongoing column is dedicated to providing information to our readers on managing legal risks associated with medical practice.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |