A recent report by the American Medical Association (AMA) found potential concerns with electronic medical records. While the report acknowledged potential benefits such as the ease of sharing information, the report also raised concerns about potentially new forms of medical malpractice.

Specifically, the AMA report questions whether electronic medical records encourage doctors and medical providers to cut and paste information rather than to think through information independently. The report also raised concern over poorly designed electronic medical record systems that could lead providers to enter information in the wrong spaces, resulting in potential harm to patients.

Given the potential pros and cons, the AMA has not taken a position about electronic medical records. Further study has been recommended as the health care IT field continues to grow.

As a patient, it is important to continue to advocate for yourself, just as you did before electronic medical records were widely used. Do not assume that your providers know what is in your record. Instead make sure to tell them anything pertinent to your visit and question them about their diagnoses or treatment recommendations.

If you have been hurt by a doctor’s negligence in using electronic or traditional paper medical records, then it is important to contact experienced Atlanta med mal attorneys for help. You can reach our Atlanta medical malpractice lawyers by calling 1.770.518.1133, and you can learn more about why you might have been hurt in our FREE book: Why Did This Critical Medical Error Happen to Me.