What does the acronym EHR stand for in a medical context?

The acronym EHR stands for Electronic Health Record. In the medical context, it refers to a digital version of a patient's paper chart, containing comprehensive health information, including medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and lab test results. EHRs are designed to be accessed and shared across different healthcare settings, which enhances the efficiency of patient care, improves accuracy, and builds a more coordinated approach to health management.

This digital system allows healthcare providers to quickly and securely access a patient’s health information, resulting in informed medical decisions and improved outcomes. The widespread implementation of EHRs has transformed how healthcare is delivered, contributing to increased safety and efficiency in clinical environments.