Guest posting by David Lam
We live in an age where eHealth resources are growing in acceptability, accessibility, and usability. To capitalize on rising demand, more and more initiatives are being started to equip patients with the tools to take control of their own healthcare. In fact, the amount of options to choose from is almost overwhelming. When searching for ‘personal health records’ on the iPhone’s App Store, there are more than a hundred results! This article will explore the need for PHRs and factors to consider in choosing a personal health record software.
What is a PHR?
Before we explore options for PHRs, we begin by clarifying the definition of a personal health record. PHRreviews [1] defines a personal health record as a “consolidated medical record of an individual, stored in electronic format.” Dissected, it has two key features: PHRs are a collection of medical information, and they are electronic. They allow its users to compile their medical records, insurance information, illness histories, and lab reports in one place. What makes them distinct from electric health records is that the PHR belongs to the patient rather than physicians and other medical caregivers.
Why do I need one?
According to HealthIT.gov [2], a personal health record can improve quality of care by shifting the central hub of medical records from the primary care physician to the patient. You, the patient, have a greater incentive to maintain up-to-date information on your record, because ultimately it is your health at stake. Furthermore, personalized health records allow for improved patient self-efficacy, more organized health records, and greater storage and safety of health records [3].
Patient self-efficacy
A patient can take control of their health in a variety of ways. By actively tracking their health, patients gain a tool to interactively learn about and understand their conditions. Furthermore, many of today’s PHR software contain tools for users to set goals for their health and keep themselves accountable. Finally, patients are able to refer to their medical information, prescriptions, and lab tests at their own convenience without having to wait on a busy doctor’s office.
Organized health records
Medical providers are not as incentivized as a patient to keep their records organized, accurate, and secure. Therefore, it is up to the patient to ensure that their personal health records are up-to-date and accessible! PHR software allow for tracking of routine check-ups, can be transferred between medical providers and institutions without cumbersome red tape, and are accessible even when traveling.
Storage and safety
An electronic PHR has the benefit of security and the ability to be backed up. In the event of a natural disaster or tragic occurrence, a patient’s paper-based medical records run the risk of being lost with no opportunity for recovery. They can also be backed up to multiple locations, in the case that one system fails.
How do I choose a PHR?
Like any new technological phenomenon, the standards of PHR software are still evolving [4]. This section will give a basic overview of factors to consider in selecting a personal health record system.
Features
Can you control the content of your PHR? This includes adding, deleting, and editing your medical history. Furthermore, you should be able to consensually share your records with medical providers [4].
Integration
The whole point of a personal health record is to allow you, the patient, to take control of your healthcare! If the software you choose is not user-friendly, it may impact your ability and motivation to continue participating in your health through PHRs.
Security and Reliability
PHRs contain sensitive information that you may not want revealed to the rest of the world. Is your PHR software secure, and does the company have a trustworthy reputation? You would not want your information shared or sold without your permission [4]. Furthermore, you would also not enjoy an unreliable software that is inaccessible when you need it.
In Summary
Do your research before selecting a PHR software. Depending on your choice, it can be an empowering tool or a burdensome task to maintain. Your PHR is all about you and your ability to navigate your own healthcare. Finding the perfect PHR can lead to a better healthcare experience!
Sources:
[1] http://www.phrreviews.com/what-is-a-phr
[2] http://www.healthit.gov/patients-families/health-it-and-health-care-quality
[3] http://www.phrreviews.com/why-do-i-need-a-phr
[4] http://www.phrreviews.com/how-to-choose-a-phr
[5] http://www.healthit.gov/patients-families/blue-button/about-blue-button