In the fast changing healthcare industry, technology is the key to better patient care and better operations. One of the major breakthroughs is the adoption of Electronic Health Record (EHR) software.EHR Software also known as Electronic Medical Record (EMR) software is designed to digitize and streamline patient records and healthcare management. Beyond the obvious benefits of better patient care and administrative efficiency EHR software has huge environmental benefits. This article will explore the environmental benefits of digital EHR software with focus on implementation and benefits especially in India.
What is EHR Software?
EHR software is a digital version of a patient’s paper chart. It is a real time, patient centric record that makes information available instantly and securely to authorized users. While an EHR system goes beyond the standard clinical data collected in a provider’s office, it also includes a broader view of a patient’s care.Electronic Health Records Systems (EHRS) are designed to share information with other healthcare providers and organizations like laboratories, specialists, medical imaging facilities, pharmacies, emergency facilities, school and workplace clinics. This enables a more comprehensive approach to patient care.
Environmental Impact of Paper Records
Traditional paper based health record systems have several environmental drawbacks:
- Deforestation: The healthcare industry consumes huge amounts of paper. As per Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) the average physician generates a lot of paperwork which leads to deforestation and loss of biodiversity.
- Energy Consumption: Paper production requires a lot of energy and not to mention the energy required for printing, copying and faxing documents.
- Waste Generation: Paper records generate a lot of waste including discarded paper, toner cartridges and old files that eventually end up in landfills.
- Chemical Usage: Paper production and disposal involves harmful chemicals that pollute water sources and harm wildlife.
Environmental Benefits of EHR Software
Using EHR software has many environmental benefits to help reduce the negative impacts of paper records.
1. Less Paper
One of the biggest environmental Benefits Of EHR software is the massive reduction in paper. By digitising patient records healthcare providers can use a lot less paper. That saves trees and the energy and resources needed to produce paper.
2. Less Energy
Electronic Health Record system software uses less energy than the lifecycle of paper records. While EHR systems do use electricity to power computers and servers, that’s generally less than the energy required to produce, print, copy and store paper. And modern data centres are increasingly powered by renewable energy sources so that reduces the environmental footprint even more.
3. Waste
EHR software reduces the waste generated by healthcare facilities. With digital records there’s no need for physical storage so that means fewer filing cabinets, storage rooms and eventually less waste in landfills. That’s a cleaner environment and less burden on waste management systems.
4. Chemicals
Paper production and disposal involves many chemicals that are bad for the environment. EHR software reduces the need for paper so reduces the chemical pollution from paper production and disposal.
5. Resource Utilization
EHR systems help in resource utilization by optimizing workflows and reducing physical assets. For example, healthcare providers can share patient information electronically, no need of physical mail or courier services. This saves paper and reduces fuel consumption and carbon footprint of transportation.
EHR Software in India
With a huge and diverse population, India can benefit a lot from EHR software. EHR software in India is gaining popularity as healthcare providers see its potential to improve patient care and operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Here are the reasons for adoption of Electronic Health Records software in India:
- Government Initiatives: Indian government has launched several initiatives for digital health including National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) which aims to create a comprehensive digital health ecosystem. EHR software is part of this initiative.
- Awareness: Healthcare providers are getting more aware about EHR software benefits, both for patient care and environmental sustainability.
- Technology: Technology advancements like cloud computing and mobile health applications are making it easier and cost effective for healthcare providers in India to adopt and implement EHR software.
Benefits of EHR Software
Beyond the environment, EHR software has many benefits for providers and patients:
1. Better Patient Care
EHR software gives real time access to patient records so providers can make decisions quickly. That means better diagnosis, treatment and outcomes.
2. Better Coordination
EHR systems allow for seamless communication and coordination between providers. Especially when patients see multiple specialists.
3. More Efficient
EHR software automates tasks and reduces administrative burden so providers can focus on patient care. That means more efficient and productive.
4. Cost
The upfront cost of EHR software is big but the long term savings are huge. Reduced paper, lower storage and improved operational efficiency all add up to cost savings.
5. Data Security
EHR systems have robust security features to protect patient data including encryption, access controls and audit trails. So sensitive info is safe and confidential.
Conclusion
Going digital is not just about modernising healthcare but also about being environment friendly. By reducing paper, energy consumption and waste EHR software helps healthcare providers to be more green. In India with government initiatives and technology advancements the need to adopt EHR software is more. As we move forward in healthcare technology the environmental benefits of EHR software will be the key to a sustainable and efficient healthcare system.
