Entry By: Phyllis L. Ehrlich, MS, OTR/L, CHES
Originally Posted on Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners, May 23, 2012
Interoperability – the ability to access health records across health systems – would enable us to see everything that has happened with our patients before they come to us in home care. We could see how they did in therapy, what surgeries they had, which medications they’re taking, and anything else that may have an impact on them before they are discharged home.
Another benefit to interoperability: if I am in a different state and need to go to a hospital or receive any medical care, my medical records could be accessed to get my medical history, medications, allergies and any other pertinent information that may have bearing on my treatment. This is currently not available, so if I am unable to give medical information about myself, it may affect the treatment I receive…