Electronic patient records may increase healthcare costs by leading physicians to order tests more often, according to a study reported in the New York Times.
The study, published this week in Health Affairs, contradicts previous assertions that electronic health records could save up to $80 billion per year. This cost savings data served as a key incentive for billions of dollars in federal spending to urge the adoption of electronic health records among physicians.
According to the study, physicians' access to computerized imaging results was associated with a 40 to 70 percent increased likelihood of an imaging test being ordered. Physicians able to view electronic lab tests were also more likely to order additional blood tests.
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The study, published this week in Health Affairs, contradicts previous assertions that electronic health records could save up to $80 billion per year. This cost savings data served as a key incentive for billions of dollars in federal spending to urge the adoption of electronic health records among physicians.
According to the study, physicians' access to computerized imaging results was associated with a 40 to 70 percent increased likelihood of an imaging test being ordered. Physicians able to view electronic lab tests were also more likely to order additional blood tests.
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Physicians at Partners HealthCare Paid Partially by Patient Load, Complexity