"Greater demands in the U.S. for billing and regulation-related documentation contribute to the excess time burden of EHR systems compared with other countries. A high volume of clinical alerts and other distractions in the EHR, as well as various other inefficiencies (such as locked computer screens and repetitive sign-in requirements), encumber physicians as they navigate the EHR.

As a result, physicians can spend half of their total EHR time on clerical and administrative tasks, and another quarter on inbox management. Only half of a doctor's day remains for direct clinical interactions with patients. Physicians spend about one-fourth of EHR time outside the clinical session.

The essential lesson from this EHR evidence is that the time burden it imposes on physicians is substantial in the U.S., occupying hours that could otherwise be spent building truly meaningful relationships with patients (not "meaningful use" metrics!) and providing quality care.'

James G. Kahn is a health policy professor. Thrisha Gogineni is a student intern.

They share their stories and discuss the KevinMD article, "How much time do physicians spend in the EHR?"

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