What is a key advantage of using electronic health records over traditional paper records?

The key advantage of using electronic health records (EHRs) over traditional paper records lies in their improved accessibility and sharing capabilities. EHRs enable healthcare providers to access patient data quickly and efficiently from various locations, fostering better collaboration among healthcare teams.

With electronic records, sharing information between providers becomes seamless, supporting referrals, consultations, and integrated care plans. This instant access not only enhances patient safety and quality of care but also facilitates timely decision-making, which can lead to improved health outcomes. Additionally, EHRs can be accessed through secure online systems, allowing for real-time updates and reducing the chances of lost or misplaced documents commonly associated with paper records.

While other factors like cost and physical storage space are important, the significant advantages of accessibility and sharing have a more profound impact on patient care and operational efficiency in healthcare settings.