Revamping the broken electronic medical record in academic dermatology in the United States: An “Epic” endeavor

Abstract

Many Healthcare institutions face continued challenges related to electronic medical record use (EMR). Within this viewpoint article, we seek to share with our dermatology colleagues our institutional experience on the creation of standardized dermatology records. In our experience, key elements are needed to implement a standardized record, including faculty buy-in, reconciliation with dictation, selection of a leader, and design of the standardized record template. Creation of a standardized record should not only account for the clinic but also patient handouts and support staff templates. We have obtained preliminary evidence that the use of an EMR template not only reduces the cost of dictation but also improves documentation. In addition, we have not seen evidence of over documentation. However, more studies are needed to understanding how a standardized EMR impacts billing, coding, teaching and overall, patient care.

Keywords

• electronic medical record
• epic
• medical education
• quality improvement