The Electronic Health Record "Toolbox."

Abstract

I can't imagine that it will ever be easy to care for multiproblem, chronically ill patients; I suspect that such patients will always be a challenge. However, effective use of a system like KP HealthConnect can help us to be more organized and more focused in this care and can help us in the often very difficult, time-consuming task of reviewing the past status and preparing ourselves for the issues of today. With an up-to-date and managed Problem List, Medication List, and Histories section, we will be able to review in a short time what otherwise would require many minutes. Moreover, performing interim updates is simple and does not require starting from scratch, as often was the case with a paper record. Likewise, the use of SmartLinks will frequently streamline the documentation task. A SmartSet may bring all needed elements together into one easily used package. With KP HealthConnect, we have more electronic record tools, better adapted for specific functions, than ever before. With regular use of these tools, the result will be more time to spend on today's issues, including emotional needs, and on prevention, health maintenance, and chronic disease management. Achieving this goal will require dedication and ongoing effort but should yield a very satisfying and rewarding feeling not unlike that which a master carpenter might experience upon completing a fine china cabinet.