The Federal Government through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid services (CMS) is offering incentives for providers to adopt EHRs and use them to meet “meaningful use” standards. For information about eligibility and the requirements, click here.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
State of Alaska – Department of Health & Social Services

State of Alaska - Department of Health and Social Services

When critical information is available in real time at the point of care, the risk of a medical error is greatly decreased. And, when past test results are included in the EHR, duplicate and expensive tests may not be needed.
No need to repeat your medical and personal history, contact data, or insurance and billing information! You give it once, and it’s in your EHR. Decreased paperwork and immediate access to records, labs and other test results increases efficiencies and lowers costs for all involved, including you, the patient.
With an Electronic Health Record (EHR) providers have secure, immediate access to your essential medical information to support quick, accurate diagnoses and treatment.
Paper records are still in use in many facilities; they are unwieldy and easily damaged and require outdated and error-prone faxed or telephoned exchange of information. Contrast them with electronic health records that have legally-mandated safeguards built in to ensure your privacy and the secure exchange of your medical information.