Implementing Electronic Medical Records During Residency

Although an electronic medical record (EMR) offers the potential for improving health care quality, efficiency, and patient safety, its use is debated and its implementation is highly complex with the potential for hidden expenses. Regardless of your thoughts on this issue, EMR use in dermatology is expanding as physicians at academic medical centers and private practices rush to take advantage of available government incentives and avoid financial penalties that are scheduled to take effect in 2015 for Medicare and Medicaid providers who fail to make the switch. Dr. Christian Halvorson shares his experience with this transition, discusses the pros and cons of an EMR from a resident's perspective, and describes some challenges encountered throughout the process.