How Advances in Medical Record Storage Impact Medical Assisting
Hollywood Institute
Medical assistants are required to know their way around many different types of technology, as well as knowing how to handle sensitive patient information. In recent decades, these 2 skills have merged with the introduction of electronic health records and electronic document storage. These advances in how patient medical records are handled has an enormous impact on the medical assisting field. If you’re considering taking a medical assistant training program in Margate, FL, here are a few things you need to know about how this advancement will impact your job duties.
Understanding HIPPA Compliance
HIPPA compliance is always a major concern for businesses, especially those in the medical field. There are strict regulations that dictate how patients’ medical records must be handled, and by not complying with these regulations, one can face serious repercussions, including fines, penalties, loss of licensing, and even legal action. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) has an enormous impact on how medical professionals of all types must handle files. It is vital that as a medical assistant, you understand how to appropriately handle both the physical and the electronic versions of patients’ health records so that your company isn’t at risk of non-compliance.
Providing Patients with Access
EHRs have also impacted the way medical professionals share information with their patients. As a medical assistant, sharing records with patients may be a part of your duties, so it’s important that you understand how to give patients convenient, but secure access to their medical records. Doing so provides an important service for your patients and will help to keep your office in compliance with HIPPA regulations.
House Calls
Depending on who ultimately hires you as a medical assistant, you may find yourself assisting on house calls to patients, especially to the elderly. EHRs make it fast and easy to update patient medical records even when you’re away from the main office. So, for example, the primary care provider on the house call with you may ask you to update aspects of the patient’s health record as he or she conducts their examination or provides necessary medical services. You should be able to do this quickly and efficiently, while keeping all patient information secure.
Learning to Adapt
The systems used to manage EHRs can differ from one employer to another. It’s important to be a fast learner of the new software and technology, so that you can quickly become proficient at your employer’s chosen document management system. Proper handling of EHRs is a key part of receiving your medical assistant certification in Margate, FL, so be sure to learn this important skill to avoid any potential issues compliance issues for future employers. And try to keep those skills up to date, so that you’re able to adapt to any future changes in HIPPA requirements or electronic document storage practices. Talk to the team at Hollywood Institute today to learn more!