전자의무기록에 관한 법적 문제

Medical records are an integral part of health care, containing information critical for both physician and patient. Traditionally, physicians keep patient information in paper charts and physically transmit patient data between providers. Already several hospitals and clinics have switched to an electronic method of patient information storage. Electronic medical records generally refer to any medical record or part of a medical record that is kept in an electronic format. Electronic medical records system may be beneficial and efficient, but the public has expressed several concerns regarding the storage of private medical information in the electronic realm. Although there is concern for patient confidentiality, proponents of an electronic system say electronic records can make hospitals more efficient. An electronic system will give doctors instant access to potentially life saving information such as patient’s medical histories, lab test results and the list of medications they have been prescribed. Electronic medical record system helps hospitals deliver better medical care at a lower cost. Defensibility of electronic medical record documentation is also tested in the courts. Electronic medical records can be illicitly accessed from anywhere and transmitted across the globe quickly, cheaply, and with little risk of detection. Once data is distributed on the internet, it may become available to anyone who wishes to purchase it, and it cannot be expunge. Patient privacy protection of medical records is controlled mostly by patient consent laws that define how and when a patient must consent before a physician may disclose the patient’s medical records to anyone else. To adequately protect privacy, laws supporting electronic medical record technology need to include regulations covering at least security system factors.