There is an ongoing debate---both among governmental officials and medical professionals---surrounding online medical records. As with any debate, there are arguments being made both in favor and against expanding the use of online medical records. There are persuasive points advocating the use of the Internet as means of storing and accessing medical records.
History
There is a steady movement to make medical records available via the Internet. Legislation is proposed in Congress to mandate the broader use of electronic record keeping, utilizing the resources of the World Wide Web.
Significance
The primary significance of online medical records rests in the fact that these documents are readily available to health care providers no matter where a patient happens to be located in the world.
Misconceptions
The most common misconception associated with online medical records is that by being on the Internet, these records are more accessible to the general public.
Effects
The effects of online medical records are that patients obtain better and swifter medical care and treatment because medical information is more accessible.
Benefits
A point in favor of electronic and online medical records is that using these technologies lowers the cost of medical care.
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