In recent years, reports of growing concern over preventable medical mistakes have lead to regulatory changes. One popular method widely believed to be effective in preventing medical errors is the use of electronic medical records. As hospitals and medical facilities work towards reducing medical errors, however, safety concerns are being raised over the safety of EHRs.

A recent study aimed to determine the effectiveness of EHRs in preventing medical mistakes. For the study, researchers looked at EHR-related error reports at hospitals throughout one state. A total of 3,099 errors were recorded. Of these, more than 2,800 were errors that did not result in any harm or injury to patients. The remaining recorded errors, however, directly impacted patients' health and wellbeing.

Common EHR-related errors included incorrect information being entered, the wrong medication being given, failure to enter test results and ignoring allergy information. The results of the study illustrate the importance of following strict best practices and safety protocols when entering patient information. The study also proves that human error is still a factor in the majority of EHR-related errors.

Instances of EHR-related errors were higher at those hospitals that still relied upon both paper and electronic record keeping. Researchers are hopeful that sole reliance on EHRs and improved training of medical staff on EHR best practices will greatly reduce instances of medical errors and improve overall patient safety.

Source: Renal and Urology News, "Medical Errors Occur Despite Electronic Health Records," Ann W. Latner, JD, Jan. 3, 2013