Personal electronic health records: The start of a journey

Abstract

Technology is poised to drive dramatic change in the way healthcare is delivered. Many countries are using health information technologies to improve the safety of healthcare and reduce costs. There is an evolving capability for health information to be accessed and exchanged between healthcare providers in real time. Shared electronic health records are increasingly seen as having a key role in facilitating access to and exchange of data, promoting engagement with self-management, and supporting continuity of care. Sharing electronic health records with consumers supports the move to more informed patients becoming active partners in their own health care. Consumers can access their own health information, contribute to their health record and interact more effectively and efficiently with the health system.