16 Personal Health Records

Learning Outcomes Define the term personal health record (PHR). Understand the differences between stand-alone, tethered, and integrated PHRs. Discuss common functionality available in the PHR. Discuss the patient-centered benefits associated with PHRs.

Learning Outcomes Identify at least two large health systems using PHRs. List several barriers related to patient use of PHRs. List several concerns related to patient self-entered data.

Personal Health Records Evolving definition of a PHR Different from an EHR Driven by consumers Multiple sources of health information and services

FIGURE 16–1 Attributes of an ideal personal health record

Patient Engagement, Efficiency, and Quality Meets quality standard of IOM Consumer demands for PHRs have increased

History Precursors to Electronic PHRs included notebooks, files, written records.

PHRs Standalone systems are not tied to any healthcare system. Google Health PHR Tethered systems are tied into a healthcare system. My HealtheVet PHR from the VA

EHR Personal Health Information Lab and test results Medication lists Appointment After-visit summaries Visit notes Patient clinical reminders

Patient-Entered Data Some PHRs have ability for the patient to enter data. Prior medical history Family history Alternative medications Blood pressures

Issues Related to PHRs Delegation of access to PHR via a proxy user Access to financial, medical claims Privacy

Research Increase in effectiveness, chronic conditions Increase in patient and provider satisfaction Improved quality of care

Future Directions A network of care or communities of care Web-based interventions based on PHRs Increase in adoption and patients will be used as a major source of data