Here is what I think might be an interesting article for everyone who is interested in the EMR and how the library fits in.

Integrating Knowledge-Based Resources into the Electronic Health Record: History, Current Status, and Role of Librarians. Albert, Karen. Medical Reference Services Quarterly 26(3) 2007 1-19. (subscription required for full text)

Abstract:
Satisfying clinical information needs remains a major challenge in medicine, underscored by recent studies showing high medical error rates and suboptimal physician adherence to evidence-based practice guidelines. Advanced clinical decision support systems can improve practitioner performance and patient outcomes. Similarly, integrating online information resources into electronic health records (EHRs) shows great potential for positively impacting health care quality. This paper explores the evolution and current status of knowledge-based resource linkages within EHRs, including the benefits and drawbacks, as well as the important role librarians can play in this process.

Oooh I have got to get my hands on this article. I really think the next step for librarians is to expand their services by providing point of care resources that can be integrated in the EMR. Unfortunately, I think many librarians are spinning their wheels trying to figure out how to get involved.

Labels: EMR, Technology