Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) Practice Exam

What is one key characteristic of a Personal Health Record compared to an Electronic Medical Record?

1. PHR requires all medical professionals to use it

2. PHR is solely for employer use

3. PHR can be changed by the patient

4. PHR does not include medical history

The correct answer is: PHR can be changed by the patient

A Personal Health Record (PHR) is distinct from an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) in that it is controlled and managed by the patient. One key characteristic of a PHR is that it can be changed by the patient. This means that individuals have the ability to add, update, or modify their own health information as needed, reflecting their most current health status, medications, treatments, or personal notes. This characteristic empowers patients by giving them more control over their health data, allowing them to maintain a comprehensive and accurate record that supports their health management. In contrast, EMRs are typically created and maintained by healthcare providers and contain medical information generated by those providers during the course of patient care, which patients may not have the same level of access to or ability to modify. Other characteristics of PHRs further emphasize patient involvement and ownership in their health management, such as sharing the information with healthcare providers or family members. This engagement can also potentially improve communication between patients and providers, leading to more informed healthcare decisions.