With an influx of data available at providers' fingertips, they can readily share information with patients. Many in the medical community advocate for note sharing as healthcare becomes increasingly focused on bringing patients into the fold.
Modern Medicine highlights various providers' points of views on this topic.
Here are six key notes:
1. Since OpenNotes launched its 2010 study, the medical industry has seen a major jump in sharing notes. OpenNotes is a nationwide initiative that provides patients' access to the notes that their providers write during appointments. Currently, health systems and physicians have opened note accessto almost 20 million patients.
2. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation created the study. The study found this practice facilitates an open provider-patient dialogue built around trust. It also allows patients to feel empowered and discuss difficult topics.
3. Donald Rebhun, MD, corporate medical director of Mission Hills, Calif.-based HealthCare Partners, told Modern Medicine OpenNotes allows patients and physicians to be active participants in decisions, as opposed to the physician making the sole choice on the best course of action.
4. James Legan, MD, a primary care physician with Great Falls, Mont.-based Northwest Physicians, told Modern Medicine physicians should put the notes on a large screen to discuss notes with patients during their appointments.
5. Healthcare's push for transparency will also drive this trend. Faisal Tawwab, MD, a family practice specialist with Orlando, Fla.-based Multicare Physicians in Orlando, said to Modern Medicine, "If we know patients will have access to their notes, we as physicians will go the extra mile to make those notes as comprehensive, accurate and easy-to-digest as possible."
6. Those opposed to sharing notes say they worry patients may feel offended about what the notes contain. Dr. Rebhun said, "They may be concerned about observations and opinions they have included, which may lead to more questions, more time and disruption of the doctor-patient relationship." Despite these concerns, he said it is crucial for physicians to build trust as the practice is "worthwhile."