It's not your parents' health care

by Frances Gough MD

9 February 2010

From EMRs to PHRs, health care has come a long way in the last few decades. Here’s a short rundown of a few of the current trends that are helping consumers access care and stay connected.

Electronic medical records (EMRs)

Gone are the days of all those colorful file folders in your primary care physician’s (PCPs) office holding all of your personal information—these digital systems allow health care providers, clinics, and hospitals to store and share data easily, securely, and effectively. Privacy concerns have largely been relieved in the minds of both providers and patients, but for some in the medical community, the adoption remains slow. However, the ability to communicate health information accurately and rapidly can be a lifesaver in a clinical setting.

Personal health records (PHRs)

You’ve likely seen a personal health record online, or maybe you’ve already filled one out. By providing your medical history—immunizations, medications, diseases, allergies, and more—you have a secure way to store all your data in one place for continuity of care with different providers. The goal is of course to save time and money for you and your providers. The skepticism, according to a recent study, lies in the consumer’s nervousness to enter confidential information, such as mental health conditions, into his or her personal health record.

Virtual visits

Telemedicine, or virtual visits, is medical care conducted via technology such as web cameras (or webcams) to connect you with your primary care provider (PCP). This means you may be sitting on your couch with your laptop consulting with your PCP—saving you the time and expense of driving in for an appointment. A recent New York Times article shows that telemedicine is already popular in European countries such as Denmark, where Danish doctors have saved an average of 50 minutes a day in administrative work, and an estimated $120 million per year in costs.

Concierge (or “boutique”) medicine

You will pay a little extra for this type of attention, but the reward is extra time—and not much waiting—to see your primary care physician. Whether you need a same-day visit or access to your PCP in the evening via e-mail, that’s what you’ll get. Get ready for more of these types of practices: As CNN reported, “In 2005 there were 500 doctors practicing what's referred to as concierge medicine. Now there are 5,000, according to the Society for Innovative Medical Practice Design.” The consumer resistance, of course, lies in the cost.

No matter what happens with national health care reform, new medical care and connectivity options are coming—or are already here.

 

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