More EHR Training Necessary

The use of EHRs is increasing in practice and medical schools are trying to keep up by allowing their students to use the technology. However, the training on the proper use of EHRs is often lacking and changes must be made in order to make sure future physicians have the best foundation possible. According to a recent Alliance for Clinical Education survey, a number of medical students are using EHRs in their education. 64% of medical schools allow their students access to this technology. However, the extent of this use varies.

• 66% can make notes in EHRs
• 41% can view/write notes without the ability to make orders
• 27% can view/write patient notes and enter patient orders for co-signing

Why such a variation? Because of the extent to which medical schools recognize and can support digital input within EHRs. Faculty may not have the ability to review student notes within the EHR system, or be untrained on how to access such notes, so mistakes are more apt to appear and go uncorrected. Faculty must be better trained on the EHR systems and how to utilize all components of the EHR in order to properly teach their students the correct usage.


"We hope that medical schools and faculty recognize that students need to be more integrated in the team and not excluded from utilizing the EHR...This can jeopardize their learning and their effectiveness as future physicians." ~ Maya Hammoud, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology (University of Michigan Medical School)