Knowledge Library

Although electronic health records (EHRs) have many benefits, studies reveal unexpected patient safety and liability risks associated with their use. The speed at which EHR technology is advancing and the speed with which hospitals and medical practices are implementing these systems can partially explain this increased risk exposure.¹ Optimizing an EHR (using it to its full potential) can deflect some of this risk. However, the importance of optimizing an EHR can be overlooked amid the struggle to provide quality patient care while complying with regulations and participating in government incentive programs.²

Physician burnout is associated with two-fold increased odds for unsafe care, unprofessional behaviors, and low patient satisfaction according to one study.¹ Another study shows that electronic health records (EHR) contribute to physician burnout due to the increased clerical burden that disrupts the time spent with patients.² Like many other healthcare issues, preventing physician burnout is cheaper and safer than managing the downstream consequences. In this special report, the risk management experts at NORCAL offer strategies to address stress caused by EHRs.

Telemedicine continues to grow at an impressive rate as increasing numbers of providers adopt it in their practices, and the technology continues to improve for connecting with and delivering virtual care to patients.

Telemedicine continues to grow in scope and popularity as increasing numbers of providers adopt it in their practices, and the technology continues to improve for connecting with and delivering virtual care to patients. Telemedicine offers a number of advantages to providers and patients—including convenience and speedier and improved access to care—leading to increased patient satisfaction. It also offers increased opportunities for providers to broaden their practices and patient base as well as greater flexibility in how they provide care to patients.¹

In the first half of 2020 — the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic — telehealth experienced extraordinary growth as social distancing protocols, concern over spreading the virus, and other pandemic realities spurred demand and adoption. While this growth has receded since that time, usage remains well above pre-pandemic levels and the regulatory environment remains dynamic.¹