EMR-using patients more satisfied with their doctors

Patients who have used EMRs are significantly more satisfied with their doctors overall and report higher satisfaction across other dimensions of care such as ease of access to information and clarity and thoroughness of communication.

The study, conducted Aeffect and 88 Brand Partners, found that patients who use EMRs also believe they receive better quality of care (82 percent). EMR users believe they engage in clearer and more responsive communications with their physicians, and can gain access to information easier than non-EMR users.

About 24 percent of Americans surveyed are currently using EMRs to check their test results, order prescription refills and make appointments, while another 52 percent say they are interested in using EMRs but currently are not accessing these systems for a variety of reasons, the study found.

With almost 50 percent of patients taking EMR access into consideration when choosing a healthcare provider, the effective use of EMRs by providers is critical, according to the study.

"The study findings clearly indicate a strong link between EMR users and their confidence in the quality of healthcare they receive," said Tamara O'Shaughnessy, vice president of Aeffect, in a release. "There is solid evidence that the investment providers continue to make in EMR systems is likely to put adopters at a competitive advantage and yield dividends beyond the expected operational efficiencies--namely it will enhance patient loyalty and satisfaction."

"The business of healthcare is dependent upon meeting patients' expectations," said Michael McGuire, director of strategy, 88 Brand Partners, in a release. "EMR users are telling us that they are more confident in the coordination of care they're being provided, and think more highly of their doctors, simply because of the information technology in use."

Other study highlights include the following:

• Consumers who prefer their doctor to use an electronic chart cited numerous reasons including access to medical records (40 percent); accuracy/better record keeping (18 percent); and coordination of care and information sharing (17 percent).
• EMR utilization is higher among consumers who are younger, live in the Western part of the U.S., have higher levels of education and provide care to an adult family member. An estimated 34 percent of residents in Western states report having tried an EMR.
• Consumers do not believe that paper charts are more secure than EMRs, with only 28 percent agreeing. Nearly 40 percent believe that EMRs are more accurate than paper charts.