Answer :
Patient portals are provided by healthcare providers to facilitate patient-provider interaction and access to EHRs, while personal health records (PHRs) are managed by patients and may include data from various sources. Access to these systems can empower patients and streamline healthcare practices, but maintaining patient privacy and information security is essential under HIPAA regulations.
Patient portals and personal health records (PHRs) serve different but complementary functions within health care. A patient portal is typically provided by a healthcare provider and allows patients to access their electronic health records (EHRs), communicate with their healthcare team, request prescription refills, and schedule appointments. Its primary purpose is to streamline patient-provider interaction and enhance the efficiency of care delivery. Conversely, PHRs are health information records managed directly by patients, which can include health data from multiple sources and providers, and allow greater control over their health information.
Impact of Patient Access on Healthcare Practices
Giving patients access to their health information via patient portals and PHRs can significantly impact traditional healthcare practices. It empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare, leading to increased patient engagement and satisfaction. This access can also reduce redundancies in paperwork, improve the accuracy of health records, and facilitate preventive health by reminding patients of screenings. However, ensuring the protection of patient privacy and security of information is critical and guarded by regulations like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
