The Role of Electronic Health Records (Ehr) In Reducing Healthcare Costs and Improving Patient Outcomes. A Systematic Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63682/jns.v14i32S.8262Keywords:
Electronic Health Records (EHR), Healthcare Costs, Patient Outcomes, Healthcare Efficiency, Systematic Review, Health Information TechnologyAbstract
Background: Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems have become integral to modern healthcare, playing a significant role in enhancing healthcare delivery, reducing costs, and improving patient outcomes. The increasing adoption of EHR systems across various healthcare settings provides an opportunity to evaluate their effectiveness and potential challenges.
Objective: This study aims to systematically review the role of Electronic Health Records (EHR) in reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes. The focus is on synthesizing evidence from peer-reviewed studies to understand the benefits, challenges, and overall effectiveness of EHR in healthcare management.
Methodology: A systematic review approach was employed to identify relevant studies published between 2019 and the present. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple scientific databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and others. The studies included in the review were evaluated using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted using a standardized process. The quality of each study was assessed using appropriate assessment tools, including AMSTAR, Cochrane Risk of Bias, and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.
Results: The review revealed that EHR systems have a positive impact on reducing healthcare costs by improving efficiency, reducing administrative burdens, and minimizing errors. Additionally, EHRs contribute to enhanced patient outcomes through better care coordination, reduced medication errors, and improved clinical decision-making. However, barriers such as high system costs, lack of training, and resistance to change were identified as challenges to the widespread adoption of EHR systems.
Conclusion: EHR systems play a crucial role in improving healthcare efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing patient care. Despite the identified barriers, the evidence supports the continued adoption and improvement of EHR systems. Future research should focus on addressing the challenges associated with EHR implementation and further exploring its potential to optimize healthcare delivery across diverse settings
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