The powerful technology of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Software systems tracks an immense amount of patient data which includes information like; demographics, patient history, progress notes, and diagnosis. In recent times, healthcare providers believe that it is crucial to add social determinants of health data to this. In this article, we will talk about what are social determinants of health and why this data is vital for EHR Software solutions to enhance the patient care process.
What are Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)?
Social Determinants of Health are the conditions offered by the environment in which people live and how these affect outcome levels. Some common examples of SDOH include;
- An individual’s financial position to get food
- Quality of air
- Quality of water where they live in
Whatever collection methods are used this information must be incorporated in the patient’s medical record so healthcare providers can use it for improved decision making and therefore better patient outcome levels. By having access to a patient’s social determinants of health clinicians are better able to provide accurate treatment options to them.
Advantages of Integrating SDOH Data into EMR Software Systems
The integration of this vital data into Electronic Health Records (EHR) software systems is necessary for enhanced patient care. A study conducted in 2014 revealed that factors such as employment and a person’s income have a direct impact on the health of individuals with underlying conditions of type 2 diabetes.
Information from Social Determinants of Health helps providers to support their clinical decision-making process and delve inside any health issues. When SDOH data is integrated into the EMR Software solution then prospects of interoperability will also improve. Through enhances, interoperability options providers will be able to easily access this vital data to improve the patient care process.
Moving Ahead
To incorporate SDOH data into the EHR Software system it is important that providers first capture this data from their patients to comprehend any risks. Clinics can decide on screening tools and then decide on how they can include this data in the software system. A technical assistance team is required to support the documentation process. Coding standards and guidelines will be required to incorporate this data into software systems to support optimal patient care and the provider’s clinical decision-making process.
