MSSNY Supports Spitzer’s Initiative To Enhance Quality Of Care Through Electronic Health Record Technology

LAKE SUCCESS, NY (01/09/2008)(readMedia)-- “We commend Governor Spitzer for articulating the importance of assuring that necessary resources are provided to enhance adoption of electronic health record (EHR) technology by physicians in practice, particularly those physicians in solo or small group practices,” said Robert B. Goldberg, DO, President of the Medical Society of the State of New York.

Currently, the physician adoption rate for electronic health records is low (18% in 2006 and even lower in solo and small group physician offices at 8%). “In large measure, this is the result of the significant capital investment required to move to EHRs,” said Dr. Goldberg. Certainly, the use of electronic health records has been proven to improve the quality and efficiency of care while reducing health care costs and medical errors. Moreover, one study reported a 70% improvement in patient satisfaction when providers used an electronic health record, which improved the availability of clinical and patient information.

Dr. Goldberg stated that “the Medical Society also supports the Governor’s commitment to assuring the development of a standards-based interoperable system to advance the widespread adoption of electronic health record technology.”

New York State’s physicians have been an integral part of the positive healthcare developments attained in recent memory. We are committed to a continued partnership with New York State in expanding physician adoption of electronic health record technology and enhancing the availability and quality of health care services to all residents of our great state through expanded HEAL NY funding as well as other programs that will ensure inclusion of the small and mediums sized physician practices.

“We look forward to working with Governor Spitzer and the legislature on this important issue throughout this legislative session,” concluded Dr. Goldberg.

Founded in 1807, the Medical Society of the State of New York represents over 25,000 physicians, residents and medical students.

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