What are EHRs?
Digital systems that store longitudinal patient health data
Replace paper records across modern healthcare systems
Enable continuity of care across time and providers
Why Were EHRs Created?
Primary focus: Administration & billing
Documentation structured to meet reimbursement needs
Clinical workflow & research = secondary priorities
Why Do EHRs Matter Today?
Public Health Impact
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Disease surveillance
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Population health analysis
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Real-world evidence for policy
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Cost-effective research
Clinical Impact
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Continuity of medical/dental care
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Improved communication
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Data source for clinical research
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Support for evidence-based practice
Key Challenges
Incomplete or inconsistent data
Lack of standardization
System variability
Data not originally designed for research
Turning Data into Knowledge
Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning
Natural Language Processing
Transform routine clinical records into predictive and analytical tools
The Future of EHRs
From billing tools → research-ready systems
From documentation → decision support
Growing need for informatics training
Increasing use in regulation & policy
Key Message
EHRs are no longer just digital paperwork — they are powerful assets for clinical care, public health, and research.
Think About It…
How can Electronic Health Records be redesigned to better support patient care, research, and population health?
MBH/AB