Elizabeth is working with Mr. Johnston , a 75-year-old patient. The office is in the middle of converting from paper medical records to an electronic medical records system. Mr. Johnston expresses that he is unhappy with this change

He states that he does not understand what is wrong with paper charts and that he is worried about the privacy of his medical information. Discuss why Mr. Johnston might be upset and how Elizabeth should deal with the situation. What might she tell Mr. Johnston to make him feel more confident regarding the electronic medical record system?
What will be an ideal response?

ANSWER: It is common that some patients, especially the older generations, may express concern and hesitation regarding the advancement of technology and the implementation of electronic medical records systems. These patients tend to be very concerned about the privacy of their health information. Elizabeth's role in this situation is to take the time to explain the electronic medical record to Mr. Johnston. Elizabeth might take the time to explain that the office has protocols regarding the use of the electronic system. She might explain that the office uses passwords and logins for each employee. She might explain that passwords are changed often to protect the information. She might explain that information is restricted only to the employees that need to access it to provide patient care. Elizabeth should also assure the patient that the employees have been specifically trained on how to use the information and how to protect patient information.