Progress on implementing and using electronic health record systems
Developments in OECD countries as of 2021
Electronic Health Records (eHR) represent a significant digital transformation in
the healthcare sector. A 2021 OECD survey of 27 countries revealed a growing adoption
of eHRs. However, system fragmentation remains a concern: only 15 countries have a
nationally unified system. Twenty-four countries have adopted a minimum data set for
standardized core health information. While patient access to eHRs has notably increased
since 2016, obstacles such as provider resistance, technical barriers, and legal hurdles
continue to exist. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the pivotal role of eHRs, particularly
in vaccine tracking and post-market surveillance, highlighting the pressing need for
international cooperation to maximize the benefits of eHRs in healthcare. Furthermore,
as eHRs integrate with artificial intelligence, new governance challenges arise.
Available from September 21, 2023
In series:OECD Health Working Papersview more titles