In the fast-paced world of today, even healthcare, which exists in the paper era, is facing big challenges. Pen and paper may seem familiar, but it creates a very risky environment for hospitals, staff, and even more so-patients. Here are the major risks posed by paper-based systems in healthcare, denoting why going digital would seem the better alternative.
Risk of Human Errors with Paper Records
Illegible notes are prone to misreading, and very few minor mistakes can happen in patient information or prescription. Just because of a small mistake that patient may be treated wrong, putting him in dangerous condition.
Why digital is safer: EHRs are evident and conform to standards and therefore reduce the chances of miscommunication.
2. Loss or Damage of Files
Lost, damaged, or misplaced documents are a common occurrence in vast storage facilities. When a record has been lost, it can be difficult-or sometimes impossible-to trace it.
Why digital is safer: Online systems have their records secured and are easy to find with just a few practical clicks.
3. Problem in Timeliness for Data Access
Accessing one’s patient history within these mountains of files takes up valuable time. In emergencies, seconds can mean the difference for treatment.
Why digital is faster: Digital systems provide immediate access to entire patient records, improving response time.
4. Less Communication Between Departments
Information on paper is difficult to share quickly among doctors, labs, and nurses. This slows down care, and it creates confusion.
Why digital is better: Online platforms allow everybody to be updated in real time so that everyone involved in caring for a patient is on the same page.
5. Security and Privacy Issues
Paper files can be stolen, damaged, or accessed illegally. Security has also become a serious challenge that has been difficult concerning sensitive health data.
Why digital is safer: Encryption and password protection would be used by cloud-based systems and would allow no access for unauthorized staff to use the site’s databases.
6. Costs for Storage and Problems with Space
Hospitals have years’ worth of patient records, which occupy entire rooms. This has made space management expensive and inefficient.
Why digital saves money: Digital storage requires no physical space and therefore costs way less over time.