EMRs: Has the train already left the station?

Whether you are a physician in private or group practice, it may be time to seriously consider implementing electronic medical records (EMRs)-or you may find yourself out of the loop. A survey conducted by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) found that EMRs are fast becoming a part of operations at 550 hospitals and health-care organizations.

Specifically, the survey of health-care executives who oversee technology in their organizations found that 62% will implement EMRs in their facilities in the next 2 years. Already 18% have EMRs in full operation.

Given increased public and political interest, Pamela Wirth, HIMSS board chairman, told Modern Physician (2/15/05) that she expects information technology expansion to occur throughout the health-care industry.