What distinguishes a Personal Health Record (PHR) from an Electronic Medical Record (EMR)?

The distinction between a Personal Health Record (PHR) and an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) primarily lies in the level of control and ownership that patients have over their health information. A PHR is a health record that is maintained by the patient, allowing them to input, manage, and share their personal health data according to their preferences. This personalized control empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare management.

Conversely, an EMR is a digital version of the paper charts that a healthcare provider keeps for a patient, containing the medical and treatment history of patients within a particular practice. An EMR is a legal document that is utilized by healthcare providers to deliver care and manage patient treatment, and it is not meant for patients to modify. This makes the EMR a formal record recognized by the healthcare system, while the PHR remains a less formal, patient-controlled document.

Understanding this difference is crucial for navigating personal and clinical health information, and it highlights the importance of patient engagement and accessibility in the healthcare process.