Ephrata Community Hospital Implements Electronic Medical Record System

Ephrata Community Hospital has begun implementation of an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system to automate medical records. This project will help to provide better patient care by integrating health information among doctors and hospital staff. The first stage of the transition to the system is expected to be complete in early 2011.

Health care providers collect information about every patient’s condition, medical history, diagnostic tests, medications and family history of illnesses. In the past, that information was stored in a paper record. Now it will be stored electronically.

The EMR delivers instant access to patient information when and where healthcare providers need it - at the hospital, in their offices, or while on-call. The system also assists in emergencies because on-call staff can more quickly access a patient’s electronic medical history.

Currently, only providers associated with the Ephrata Community Hospital and Northern Lancaster County Medical Group will have access to this system.

"Electronic Medical Records will transform patient care as we know it. Patient safety will be enhanced with an emphasis on up-to-date care, medication interaction checking, and better documentation of care rendered. Additionally, it improves the ability of clinicians to communicate with each other seamlessly,” said Khiet Trinh, MD, MBA, Associate Vice President for Medical Affairs at Ephrata Community Hospital. “This enhanced communication will reduce medical errors and unnecessary testing. It is a very exciting time as we are on the cusp of a revolution in medicine. Ten years from now, new doctors will be amazed there was a time EMR's did not exist," he added.

According to Kathie Singer, RNC, BSN, Clinical Educator, Family Maternity Unit, “Electronic medical documentation will help us as nurses to deliver safe and competent care to our patients. It is wonderful to have access to what has happened in the past, without having to call for records from the primary care provider. It will be the tool that will enhance collaboration between the entire disciplinary team that cares for each individual patient.”

Installation of an electronic system has already begun at several Northern Lancaster County Medical Group offices, with more offices being added in the near future.