The ABCs of CPRs and EMRs. Definitions, semantics, product differences and the need for demonstrated results hinder wide-scale adoption.

Larry Dolin, president and CEO of Mayfield Heights, OH-based N Medical Systems Inc., says there is also confusion surrounding what constitutes an EMR, let alone a CPR. Dolin, whose company has develo a total system for medical data management, views an EMR as a total computer-based medical record that does not rely on paper charts, transcription or dictation, yet includes all doctors’ notes and prescription orders. He believes a true EMR requires physicians to do their own clinical documentation by entering data as they examine patients. Waegemann agrees, saying that you really don’t have an EMR unless the physician is using a computer in the examining room. oteworth