by 
The Curious Bag
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Storing medical records online is a controversial issue as many patient rights groups are concerned about privacy issues and misuse of information by government authorities. Overall there a multiple benefits for patients in having their medical records online, including saving their lives. Access to critical information in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death.
Security
Medical files stored online are safer than paper files at your doctor's office. Paper files could be lost through theft, fire or natural disasters. When medical records are stored online, the servers are encrypted for security against theft and backed up on on regular schedules, storing copies in a second location should the main server crash.
Instant Access
Radiology or other test files are added to the patient's file as soon as they are completed.
Access From Anywhere
A patient's information is easily accessible by any medical facility, even if the person becomes ill or injured while traveling.
Immediate Reporting
Doctors can complete patient files using portable electronic devices, instantly updating information in the files. When patients see multiple doctors or specialists, each doctor will have complete information on the patient and all medical treatments.
Reduced Errors
The portable devices used by doctors will reduce errors from transcribers misreading doctors writing on paper files. Software instantly warns doctors of dangerous drug interactions for patients on multiple medications.
Source:
Wharton University: The Benefits, and Potential Side Effects, of Sharing Medical Records Online
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