Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS) Process Workflow & Information Management Redesign Practice Exam

Which of the following is an advantage of electronic health records compared to paper records?

1. Electronic records are less expensive to maintain

2. Electronic records allow for fine-tuned control of access permissions

3. Paper records are easier to back up and restore

4. Electronic records do not require training to use

The correct answer is: Electronic records allow for fine-tuned control of access permissions

The choice highlighting that electronic records allow for fine-tuned control of access permissions is indeed an advantage of electronic health records (EHRs) compared to paper records. This is because EHR systems can be built with sophisticated user access controls that enable healthcare organizations to determine who can view, edit, or manage patient information based on their specific roles and responsibilities. For instance, a healthcare provider might have comprehensive access to patient data necessary for treatment, while administrative staff might only access certain parts relevant to their duties, such as scheduling or billing. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records enhances the security of sensitive patient information. Access logs and activity tracking can be maintained, providing the ability to audit who accessed specific information and when. This is a substantial improvement over paper records, where tracking access is largely inefficient and lacks transparency. In contrast, while costs associated with EHRs may be higher initially due to implementation and ongoing maintenance, over time, they can lead to reduced overall costs through efficiencies and reduced errors. The claim that paper records are easier to back up and restore undermines the high-risk nature of physical documents, as they can be lost, damaged, or destroyed significantly more easily than digital records. Lastly, training is essential for using EHR systems effectively