1. List six reasons proper documentation is necessary.
2. Dr. Martin discovers that Mr. Hickman has gained 22 pounds since his visit 4 months ago and that his triglycerides are high. Dr. Martin wants to:
- Check the recommended adult dosage of the cholesterol-lowering drug he intends to prescribe
- Calculate Mr. Hickman's body mass index (BMI) based on his height and weight
- Provide Mr. Hickman with a patient education brochure explaining the link between physical inactivity, being overweight, and type 2 diabetes
Which of these functions can he accomplish using his practice's EHR system? How would Dr. Martin go about gathering this information? How might the use of CDS tools help manage Mr. Hickman's diagnosis?
3. Dr. Gregorio is in practice with his daughter, a new physician, who is urging him to switch from paper to electronic records. The elder Dr. Gregorio believes his modest practice is too small to require such a system. Besides, he argues, his patients find it reassuring to see him take notes on paper. The younger Dr. Gregorio thinks it is her father, not his patients, who is reluctant to change. How could you encourage the two Dr. Gregorios to purchase an EHR system? What do you think would be the pros and cons of purchasing the system for a small practice?
4. During an EHR training session you are leading for staff, one of the members states that she is upset with the new EHR requirements and the changes to her job duties. How can you ease her fears and help her understand the need for EHRs?
5. Make a table listing the advantages of EHR systems and how each advantage would benefit the patient, the medical worker, or both.
6. Jonas presents to the office demanding to see his medical record. Your manager has left for the day. How would you respond to this situation?