Use and Adoption of Computer-Based Patient Records

Publication Date: October 2003

Publisher: California HealthCare Foundation

Author(s): David Brailer; Emi L. Terasawa

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Abstract:

Much attention has been given to the adoption of computer-based patient records (CPRs) in hospitals, physician offices, and ancillary care sites. Over the past decade, policy and industry groups, investment analysts, and government agencies have issued reports, surveys, and projections about the use and rate of adoption of CPRs. However, the assumptions about CPR adoption that drive public and private policy are often based on inconsistent and incomplete information. Although multiple studies have been performed, the findings have been dissonant and the methods unscientific. Nevertheless, the general optimism generated by these studies has had a growing impact on public policy and health system budgets. This report summarizes the available published reports on the adoption of computer-based patient records by hospitals, physician groups, and ancillary care sites. From this information, it may be possible for policymakers and others to base their discussions on reasonable facts about what and how CPRs are being used.