Key Features

EMR systems, regardless of platform or vendor, share several key features, displayed in the diagram below. At the heart of the system is the digital patient record which holds patient identification information, medical history and serves as the linking element to other modules. Workflow modules provide services previously conducted using paper based files, including scheduling, billing and charting. EMR systems provide staff and patient access to medical information and manage information exchange with external systems like insurance claims, prescription drug databases and other heath institutions. Most systems are modular and allow organizations to add functionality as the group grows, changes needs or becomes more comfortable with the digital solutions.