What is one challenge associated with computerized medical records?

What is one challenge associated with computerized medical records?

• A. They improve patient outcomes.
• B. They pose problems of confidentiality.
• C. They eliminate the need for paper records.
• D. They enhance communication among providers.

Answer: (B)

One challenge associated with computerized medical records is the potential for confidentiality issues. When patient information is stored electronically, there is an inherent risk of unauthorized access due to hacking, data breaches, or even unintentional sharing. The digital nature of these records means that they can be more vulnerable compared to traditional paper records, which, while not immune to breaches, offer an immediate form of physical security. Maintaining confidentiality requires robust cybersecurity measures, continuous monitoring, and strict adherence to privacy regulations. The other options reflect positive aspects rather than challenges. Improving patient outcomes and enhancing communication among providers are considered benefits of electronic records. Similarly, while computerized records do reduce reliance on paper, this shift does not address the associated confidentiality challenges that can arise in the digital landscape.

One challenge associated with computerized medical records is the potential for confidentiality issues. When patient information is stored electronically, there is an inherent risk of unauthorized access due to hacking, data breaches, or even unintentional sharing. The digital nature of these records means that they can be more vulnerable compared to traditional paper records, which, while not immune to breaches, offer an immediate form of physical security. Maintaining confidentiality requires robust cybersecurity measures, continuous monitoring, and strict adherence to privacy regulations.

The other options reflect positive aspects rather than challenges. Improving patient outcomes and enhancing communication among providers are considered benefits of electronic records. Similarly, while computerized records do reduce reliance on paper, this shift does not address the associated confidentiality challenges that can arise in the digital landscape.