Understanding the EMRS

• Electronic medical record systems are computer-based medical information accessible by all departments across a health care organization.
  
  

POC Data Capture

• A key component to the EMRS is point-of-care data capture. Information is input and accessed immediately while treating the patient, which quickly and easily facilitates clinician decision making.
  
  

Integrating Information

• EMRS allow integration from all departments. Caregivers can access laboratory reports, immediately review pharmaceuticals appropriate for the findings on the report and order additional tests at one time.
  
  

Automated Decision Support

• Decision support means taking information within the EMRS and analyzing it on how to best treat patients. For example, when a physician orders a drug, decision support may show an interaction alert with the patient's other medications and offer alternate prescription suggestions.
  
  

Order Management

• EMRS allow for quick ordering of laboratory tests, X-rays, supplies and other patient items from one point.
  
  

Reporting

• A major function of EMRS is ease of reporting. Because all patient data is store electronically, data-gathering is simplified for running needed organizational, state and federal reports.