What does EHR stand for in medical terms?

EHR stands for Electronic Health Record. This term refers to a digital version of a patient's paper chart and encompasses all of the patient's medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and laboratory test results. The key aspect of an EHR is its ability to be shared across different healthcare settings, streamlining the way medical professionals access and manage patients' healthcare information. This integration facilitates better coordination and efficiency in patient care, making it a fundamental tool in modern healthcare practices.

The term is distinct because it emphasizes that these records are not just for emergency situations but are comprehensive documents used throughout the entire span of a patient's care. The other options provided, while they may seem plausible at first glance, do not accurately describe the general concept recognized in the healthcare field, which is focused on the electronic management of patient information.