Understanding and Navigating the Unintended Consequences of Electronic Health Records

Program Description

Although the electronic health record (EHR) may offer opportunities to improve healthcare, electronic health record systems have been shown to create unintended consequences leading to liability exposures for physicians and other user groups. Extensive research that has been conducted by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) provides evidence that EHR utilization patterns are fraught with inconsistencies in how these systems function; how they present documentation and populate data and clinical information. This presentation will draw upon OHSUs experience to see if and to what degree OHSUs experience may correlate with Saltzer Medical Group’s own experience. The presentation will also include litigation case studies drawn from a defense attorney of The Doctors Company and a group problem solving exercise will help determine the level of knowledge and comprehension users have in applying all kinds of electronic devices that may interface with an EHR system.

Objectives

After completing this activity, learners will be able to:

• Provide document evidence by which electronic health records can unintentionally and adversely affect clinical work flow, decision making, or the rendition of care.
• Identify strategies to mitigate unintended consequences in using electronic health records.
• Employ tools and methods that will lead to the effective use of electronic health record systems and minimization of legal risk.

Disclosure

No individual in a position to control or influence the content of this activity has reported relevant financial relationships with commercial interests.

Faculty

Jeffrey A. Gold, MD, Professor of Medicine; Director, OHSU Simulation Center; Program Director, Pulmonary Critical Care and Critical Care Fellowships; Associate Director, Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center Oregon Health and Sciences University

Kevin J. Scanlan, JD, Member Attorney, Duke Scanlan Hall, PLLC

Continuing Education Credit

The Doctors Company is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical educational activities for physicians.

The Doctors Company designates this activity for a maximum of one and one half (1.5) AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Disclaimer

The information and guidelines contained in this activity are generalized and may not apply to all practice situations. The faculty recommends that legal advice be obtained from a qualified attorney for specific application to your practice. The information is intended for educational purposes and should be used as a reference guide only.

Contact Us

If you have questions, contact educationsupport@thedoctors.com or call (800) 421-2368, extension 1243.