Technology and implants
Electronic health record
An electronic health record is a digital version of a patient's chart that keeps health information in one place and shares it with authorized users.
HealthIT.gov says electronic health records (EHRs) are real-time, patient-centered records that make health information available immediately and securely to authorized users.
A dental chart often holds histories, notes, images, treatment plans and consents. In many dental offices the record lives inside practice management software. Some practices also link to a medical record system.
The record is protected health information. The HIPAA Security Rule sets safeguards for the electronic form. Offices should control who can see each record and keep logs of access.