This article was published as a Case Study in the MGMA (Medical Group Management Association)e-Connexion in June, 2005. "Reprinted with permission from the MGMA, 104 Inverness Terrace East, Englewood, Colorado 80112-5306; 303.799.1111. www.mgma.com Copyright 2005."

Patients of The Heart Group, Ohio, get more than good care from their cardiologists: They can get credit card-sized compact discs with their pertinent medical history.

The Heart Group has enjoyed the benefits of a full electronic medical records (EMR) system for four years. For a $40/year subscription fee, patients get a disc containing their demographic information, medications, cardiologist's contact information, actual EKG strip, test reports for diagnostic & interventional procedures and a list of cardiovascular surgery procedures, summary of most recent office visit, patient education linked to their diagnosis and medications, plus other appropriate emergency medical information.

The CDs can be read by any computer with a CD (spindle) drive. The CD production is HIPAA compliant and each one is reviewed for accuracy. Patient information is pulled from the patient's EMR chart and provide instant universal access, security and accuracy. MyRecord is a tangible benefit of The Heart Group's EMR system.

Any emergency room would have instant access to our patient's cardiology records. This gives patients peace of mind and puts the records under their control.

For MyRecord information call any 330.376.7000 or 330.376.0500.