St. Croix Regional Medical Center was recognized on behalf of Governor James Doyle by Kevin Hayden, secretary, Department of Health and Family Services, for its work to implement an electronic health record (EHR). The reception was hosted by Madison-based MetaStar, Inc., the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) in Wisconsin. SCRMC was among only 25 clinics to be recognized. The award was presented at a reception held by the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) in Wisconsin on Sept. 11, in Madison, Wisc. Governor Doyle is a strong supporter of the use of electronic health records as a means for improving patient safety and for making health care more efficient.

While implementing an EHR is not always a simple task, it benefits both physicians and patients. Benefits to patients include:

• Less waiting time -- medical records can be accessed easily and conveniently when they are needed.

• What is written in the medical record is clear to everyone -- anyone who looks at the information in the computer will be able to read it without having to decipher handwriting or abbreviations.

• Increased patient safety -- the clear documentation provided in an EHR reduces medical and prescription errors

• Better and easier communication -- patients can send electronic messages to physicians and the physician does not have to wait to get a paper record before he/she can reply

• Better illness prevention and more successful treatment -- the EHR has a tracking function that reminds health care providers that a patient needs immunizations, regular tests, and/or screenings.