Electronic Medical Office and Using Email

The Electronic Office

Many health professionals have Internet access in their offices in order to search the medical literature, review evidence-based results, read full text articles, and identify information and treatment resources for patients and families.   Many health professionals use email for office communication.   Some use email for patient-provider communication and a few practices have switched to an electronic medical record.   The use of computer technology can markedly increase access to information, improve office efficiency and enhance the care of individuals with chronic conditions for example, CSHN.   In fact, “decision support” and “information systems” are 2 components of the Improving Chronic Illness Care model.   An electronic office system that includes a registry and integrated evidence-based care guidelines will markedly improve the overall care of individuals with chronic conditions.   The ICIC website has information on materials/programs currently available for diabetes, asthma and depression.

Should you build an office website, use email for patient-provider communication, and switch to an electronic medical record?   Further information and on-going support for building and maintaining an office website and using secure email for patient-provider communication is available from Medem ( www.yourpracticeonline.com ) or www.medem.com .   Medem was founded in 1999 by seven medical societies including the AAP.   An additional resource for pediatricians interested in building a office website is   www.beansprout.com .   Beansprout also provides a companion website for families.