The mini electronic medical record: a low-cost, low-risk partial solution
Chambliss, M.L.; Rasco, T.; Clark, R.D.; Gardner, J.P.
Journal of Family Practice 50(12): 1063-1065
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0094-3509 PMID: 11742608 Document Number: 540545
Electronic medical records (EMRs) offer many advantages. However, there are also risks involved with adopting a full commercial EMR. These include high cost, the disruption of clinic routines, and poor or no vendor support. We created and implemented a partial, or miniature EMR (mini EMR) based on Microsoft Access 97 (Microsoft Corporation; Redmond, Wash). This program serves as an electronic front sheet for the patient chart that records International Classification of Diseases--9th revision codes and chronic medications and allergies, and provides reminders for prevention procedures. The mini EMR has been inexpensive, adaptable, easy to maintain, and very well accepted, and it has caused little interruption of our clinical activities. We believe the program can serve as a bridge to a future commercial EMR once that market has matured.