Educational impact of the electronic medical record.
BACKGROUND
The electronic medical record (EMR) is commonly thought to improve the safety and quality of care; however, there is scant information on the impact the EMR has on graduate medical education (GME).


METHODS
A review of English language literature was performed using MEDLINE and OVID databases using or combining the terms, EMR, GME, electronic health record, education, medical student, resident, clinical decisions support systems, quality, and safety.


RESULTS
The EMR has a negative effect on teacher and learner interactions, clinical reasoning, and has an inconsistent impact on resident workflow. Data on the impact of the EMR on patient safety, quality of care, and medical finances are mixed.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on the literature to date, the EMR has not had as dramatic an effect on patient outcomes is commonly believed. While the overall impact of the EMR on education seems to be negative, there are actions that can be taken to mitigate this impact.
Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Education, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27858, USA. pschenar@pcmh.com
Paul J
PJ
Schenarts
Kimberly D
KD
Schenarts
D002983:Clinical Competence; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D057286:Electronic Health Records; D005180:Faculty, Medical; D007396:Internship and Residency; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D013337:Students, Medical