Attending physicians reported losing an average of 48 minutes of free time per clinic day due to EMRs, according to a research letter in JAMA Internal Medicine.
The American College of Physicians administered a survey to internists providing ambulatory care regarding how EMRs affect their time budgeting. Final survey results considered 411 respondents.
The majority of surveyed physicians — 89.8 percent — indicated at least one data management function was slower after implementing and adopting an EMR, and 63.9 percent said it took longer to write notes. One-third of respondents said it took longer to find and review medical record information with the EMR, and another 32.2 percent said it took longer to read other clinicians' notes.
The average 48-minute time loss for attending physicians equates to four hours for a five-day clinic week. However, 59.4 percent of all respondents, including residents and fellows, reported an average 78 minute time loss per clinic day, or 6.5 hours for a five-day clinic week, according to the research letter.
Researchers suggest policy makers consider this loss of time when discussing future EMR mandates.
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