Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS) Process Workflow & Information Management Redesign Practice Exam

What is a primary reason for the slow acceptance of electronic health records (EHR) among the public?

1. Cost of implementation

2. Privacy concerns

3. Lack of technology skills

4. Inconsistent formatting

The correct answer is: Privacy concerns

Privacy concerns are a primary reason for the slow acceptance of electronic health records (EHR) among the public. Many individuals are apprehensive about how their personal health information is stored and shared within digital systems. The potential for data breaches, unauthorized access, and misuse of sensitive health information can lead to significant anxiety for patients. Trust is a critical component in healthcare, and if individuals do not feel secure about the privacy of their records, they are less likely to embrace EHR systems. In contrast, while cost of implementation and lack of technology skills can impact the adoption of EHR systems among healthcare providers, they do not directly address the public's personal concerns about their own health information. Additionally, inconsistent formatting might create challenges within healthcare institutions regarding interoperability, but it is less likely to be a significant barrier from a patient’s perspective compared to their worries about privacy. Understanding these dynamics highlights the importance of addressing privacy issues to foster greater acceptance of EHR among the public.