A study has found a relationship between Massachusetts physicians' use of electronic medical records and a dip in malpractice claims, suggesting EMRs reduce rather than increase medical malpractice risk, according to a HealthDay News report.
Researchers tracked malpractice cases for 275 physicians who were surveyed in 2005 and 2007. Thirty-three of them were targeted by malpractice claims, and 49 claims were related to alleged medical malpractice that occurred before the physicians adopted EMRs. Two claims occurred after EMR implementation.
Researchers estimate the likelihood of medical malpractice claims dropped by 84 percent after EMRs were installed. Study authors said the research provides more evidence that EMRs improve quality and safety of care, reducing the risk of malpractice claims as a result.
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Researchers tracked malpractice cases for 275 physicians who were surveyed in 2005 and 2007. Thirty-three of them were targeted by malpractice claims, and 49 claims were related to alleged medical malpractice that occurred before the physicians adopted EMRs. Two claims occurred after EMR implementation.
Researchers estimate the likelihood of medical malpractice claims dropped by 84 percent after EMRs were installed. Study authors said the research provides more evidence that EMRs improve quality and safety of care, reducing the risk of malpractice claims as a result.
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