The Role of Electronic Documentation in Ambulatory Surgery Centers.

Abstract

Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) have been slow to adopt electronic documentation (ie, electronic health records [EHRs]) compared with other types of health care organizations. However, recent developments, including documentation requirement changes, storage and security needs, and competition for physicians and perioperative personnel, have spurred greater interest in this technology. Electronic documentation systems can help meet the clinical, financial, operational, and regulatory needs of ASCs. Perioperative nurses should be involved in ensuring their facilities choose electronic documentation systems that meet objectives for all areas of their ASCs' operations.This article examines the benefits of EHRs and their use in ASCs today and in recent history, explains significant factors that encourage the adoption of electronic documentation by ASCs, and provides guidance on how to invest in an EHR system more effectively.