EHRs Unprepared for Genetic Information
[Guest post by Kelly Graham, from the ADVANCE for Administrators of the Laboratory blog, "ADVANCE Discourse: Lab"]
Challenges for the use and implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) are well documented, but this study in the journal Genetics in Medicine discusses another notable aspect--EHRs will need vast improvements to meet the needs of genetics and genomic medicine. The study notes that EHRs will need improved structure, standardization and functionality to house the genetic information that is slowly changing patient care.
Most EHRs--even state-of-the-art ones--lack the ability to systematically record genetic information, let alone use it for medical decision making, the report notes. Although the need to house and utilize such information now may be relatively low, it's a safe assumption that the need will only continue to increase.
Preparing for these future needs now could save many headaches when the time comes that genetic information is routinely used. As vendors roll out updates and new products, hopefully the need for genetic and genomic data is considered.
What related features would you like to see in an EHR?