What is the key distinction between an EMR and an EHR?

The distinction between an EMR (Electronic Medical Record) and an EHR (Electronic Health Record) lies primarily in the scope and functionality of each system. EMRs are designed to be used within a single practice or healthcare provider's office and primarily focus on the medical and clinical data related to a patient’s care. They are efficient for tracking diagnostic information, treatment plans, and health outcomes, but their use is generally confined to the practice that creates them.

In contrast, EHRs are intended to be more comprehensive and are designed to share information across different healthcare settings. They include a wider array of health information, not only from individual practices but also from various healthcare providers, facilitating a complete picture of a patient’s overall health history. EHRs support a patient's healthcare across different providers, including hospitals, specialty clinics, and labs, allowing for a more integrated approach to patient care.

This clarity about the purposes of EMRs and EHRs highlights how they serve different roles in patient care and health information management in the healthcare ecosystem.