Editorial

Electronic Health Records: An Awkward Third Wheel

Authors: Adam G. Golden, MD, MBA, Michael A. Silverman, MD, MPH, Thomas T. H. Wan, PhD, MHS

Abstract

Despite the theoretical and anecdotal benefits of electronic health records (EHRs) that could bring improvements such as communication among healthcare professionals, a decrease in unnecessary testing, and lower healthcare costs, the definitive outcome studies have been inconclusive. Studies that review the pre- and postimplementation of the EHRs regarding expenses and quality of care may be limited by confounding factors because of concurrent care management and other transitional care system changes.1 Because of the variability among EHR systems and healthcare practices, improved outcomes in a research study may not generalize to other physicians and
medical facilities.

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