- they don't require hardware setup at the doctor's office and therefore hardware costs and cost associated with setting it up and maintaining it is not required.
- the data is automatically backed up by the vendor in a centralized server. backups are no more the doctor's responsibility.
- software upgrades are automatically done by the vendor automatically, sometimes with additional cost. but, the doctor doesn't have to burden themselves with the upgrade process and the risk associated with it.
- accessible anywhere, anytime. the EMR is accessible from any corner of the world 24x7 with just a PC and a web browser.
- no worries about risk management. what if a natural disaster strikes or a fire accident happens at the doctor's office? zero impact, as the patient data is maintained in a different location presumably protected from such disasters and all risk-mitigating measures taken.
- the patient data is interoperable in/out with other EHR systems, providing insight into the patient's complete health history
With all those overwhelming benefits behind, there are few flip-side things inherent with web-based EHRs:
- access to patient data when the internet is down or the vendor server is down, especially during times of emergency(maybe during a surgery).
- bandwidth requirements of the software. ideally, the software shouldn't require heavy internet bandwidth. but, reality may differ.
- how secure is the patient data outside your walls when sent or received from the server.
- what are the measures taken by the company to protect against identity thefts?
The decision to or not to choose a web-based EHR is purely need-based. But, a lot of thought process needs to go in before making the final call.
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