Study questions use of electronic health systems in cost reduction initiatives

Though many hospitals and other healthcare providers have increasingly adopted electronic health records in cost reduction initiatives, a new study found that computerized systems do not necessarily help cut costs.

Researchers published the findings of the study on Monday, affirming that physicians who routinely use computers to track tests such as X-rays and MRIs ordered a significantly higher number of tests than did doctors who simply used paper records.

Hospitals and other healthcare providers have invested billions of dollars in electronic health records programs aimed at improving efficiency and cutting costs, but the study's results suggest that at least in some instances, such an outcome may not occur.

On a more granular level, the study found that doctors with computerized access to a patient's previous imaging result ordered tests on 18 percent of visits. Doctors without use of such a computerized system, on the other hand, ordered tests in only 12.9 percent of patient visits. That translates into a 40 percent higher rate of image testing by doctors with access to electronic systems, The New York Times reports.

"Our research raises real concerns about whether health information technology is going to be the answer to reducing costs," said Danny McCormick, the lead author of the study.