Usability Certification Requirements and Testing Standards, Essay Example

I agree that it is challenging to make electronic health record systems user friendly, but in spite of their complexity, many studies have shown that their use results in enhanced patient care. Therefore, I disagree with the article’s claims. A majority of medical professionals that are competent with regards to technology use are able to utilize these machines in an effective manner. While it may take several weeks for the average user to become accustomed to all of the functions of the system, this familiarity is worthwhile because it allows the practitioner to have a greater understanding of a patient’s current health status and health history. Necessary information can be pulled with a click of a button. Furthermore, these systems have the potential to increase patient compliance by providing reminders about health care visits and other recommendations.

It is important to consider that usability problems with electronic health record systems can easily be resolved if proper training is provided to these individuals. It would be beneficial to incorporate courses that help individuals understand the use of these systems in undergraduate nursing programs to allow for greater understanding when these individuals enter the workforce. Furthermore, health care organizations should provide this training to new workers to help familiarize them with the system and to answer any questions regarding meaningful use of the system. It is possible to resolve any misunderstandings with regards to electronic health record systems if training is provided. It is expected that providing medical professionals with this knowledge and taking steps for electronic health record systems to be applied in health care on a broad scale will allow quality improvement initiatives to become a greater reality.