Question

Personal experience with a Pt Portal or PHR Let us know if you currently have and use a Patient Portal or a Personal Health Record. If yes, what do you feel are the pros and cons. If not, state why you are not using from these choices (can pick more than one): Never heard of If my doctor suggested I get one, I would Don't see the value Don't trust the internet Don't want sensitive information outside my physical control Too much effort to input data Other ________________________

Answer 1

Pros and Cons of Utilization of Personal Health Records (PHRs)

Pros Cons I had effective communication with the physicians I had difficulty accessing the PHR and saw a lack in value of accessing PHRs Better recall of appointments and care issues which helped in not missing any appointments and was prepared for in person visits There were limited health literacy resources contributed to a lack of understanding of records Correction of medical errors within the medical record was possible Challenges were identified regarding the proper information being transmitted to the PHR by the healthcare institution I had a broader knowledge base of my health concerns and decreased utilization of healthcare services Physicians were concerned with legal liability Access to their records increased perceived knowledge about the medical conditions and fostered a greater sense of control of my care Providers had concerns regarding incorrect information being placed in the PHR by patients I was engaged in my healthcare decisions Concerns were expressed regarding security of information and insufficient provision of informationf regarding privacy polices related to the PHR Reading notes led to awareness of a service that was needed, or not needed, from my standpoint which helped in active participatin in discussions Health outcomes did not improve as a result of access to the PHR Records could be shared with other providers Patients found communicating through the PHR too cumbersome and preferred contacting the provider's office Communication with physicians regarding surgeries, medications, immunizations, and allergies had compelling outcomes Older patients had limitations related to healthcare literacy and technology use