New research intensifies AMA’s call for improved EHR usability

Statement attributed to:
Patrice A. Harris, M.D., M.A.
President, American Medical Association

“A new study issued today found electronic medical records (EHRs) as currently designed, implemented and regulated, lack usability as a necessary feature, resulting in EHRs that are extremely hard to use compared to other common technologies. Poor EHR usability was found to be highly correlated with physician burnout.

“While the study was conducted by leading clinical institutions in collaboration with the American Medical Association (AMA), the findings will not come as a surprise to anyone who practices medicine. Too many physicians have experienced the demoralizing effects of cumbersome EHRs that interfere with providing first-rate medical care to patients.