Study indicates electronic health records claims have increased

Technology is helpful in a wide variety of atmospheres and industries. When patients are admitted to the hospital, it is likely that they are encountered with numerous forms of technology in order to aid medical professionals and treat the patient to the best of their abilities. However, technology can fail at times, which means patient healthcare is compromised. In these instances, patients could suffer much harm. Whether it was due to failed technology or the misuse of technology, this could result in a medical malpractice situation.

Electronic health records have eased the patient care process. According to a recent study, 80 percent of physician offices and 90 percent of hospitals have adopted an electronic health records system as a means to optimize productivity, workflow and communication. Despite the many benefits this system might have, it also carries with it some risks and dangers.

Researchers found that in a study of 66 electronic heath record related claims that occurred from July 2014 to December 2016, 50 percent of these claims were caused by system factors. This included incidents such as a drug failure or clinical decision support alerts. Additionally 58 percent of the claims were caused by user factors, such as copying and pasting progress notes.

Various key findings were discovered in this study. Researchers found that these claims have grown over the past decade, from two occurring from 2007 to 2010 to 66 cases occurring from July 2014 to December 2016. It was also discovered that there was an increase in these event in patient rooms and a decrease in these events happening in hospital clinics and doctor offices. Finally, they found that diagnosis-related allegations were the most common, increasing from 27 percent to 32 percent.

If you believe that you were harmed due to errors during your treatment and care at a hospital or medical clinic, it is important to understand your situation and what recourses are offered to you. An injured patient could hold a negligent medical provider accountable for medical errors. A medical malpractice action could help a patient recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, rehabilitation, lost wages and other related damages.