Final answer:
The main difference between EMRs and EHRs is that EMRs are limited to one practice's records while EHRs are comprehensive and shareable across providers. Fee-for-service systems charge for each service, while HMOs have set fees for a range of services. The ACA aims to reduce administrative costs through caps and the adoption of EMRs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The key difference between Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) and Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is their scope and breadth. EMRs are digital versions of a patient's paper chart in a clinician's office; they contain the medical and treatment history of the patients within one practice. EMRs are mostly used by providers for diagnosis and treatment. On the other hand, EHRs are designed to contain and share information from all providers involved in a patient's care. EHRs can move with the patient—to the specialist, the hospital, the nursing home, or even across the country. They are a more comprehensive record of the patient's health history and facilitate sharing of digital records among health care providers to improve quality and reduce costs of health care.
When developing policies that balance treatment costs, patient quality of life, and privacy risks, questions to consider include:
- How can we ensure the security of health records during transmission and storage?
- In what ways can patient consent be incorporated into the data-sharing process?
- What measures can be taken to minimize the risk of unauthorized access and breaches?
The fee-for-service healthcare system charges separate fees for each service provided by doctors and other providers, whereas health maintenance organizations (HMOs) offer a range of services for a predetermined fee. Fee-for-service models can lead to higher costs and potential over-utilization of services, while HMOs emphasize cost-efficiency and preventive care but may limit a patient's choice of providers.
Medical imaging techniques vary in function and use in medicine. For example:
- X-rays: Use radiation to produce images of bones and other internal structures.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Uses powerful magnets and radio waves to detail images of soft tissues.
- Computed Tomography (CT): Combines several X-ray images for a more comprehensive view.
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to produce images, often used in obstetrics and cardiology.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) implemented regulations like a cap on administrative costs and the requirement to switch to EMRs for healthcare providers, which are intended to reduce healthcare's administrative costs.