Final answer:
The confidentiality measure often not properly utilized in EHR systems is audit-trail mechanisms, which are essential for preserving the integrity and privacy of health records. Key questions in policy development target the balance between the benefits of sharing digital records and risks to individual privacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the lecture, the confidentiality measure typically in place in Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems but often not activated or monitored is audit-trail mechanisms. This feature tracks the sequence of activities or changes that affect the data moving through the EHR system. It is crucial for maintaining records of access and alteration of the medical records, which is vital for security and privacy reasons.
In thinking about the balance between costs, patient quality of life, and privacy in the context of EHRs, there are several pertinent questions that need to be addressed:In electronic health record (EHR) systems, the confidentiality measure that is typically in place but often not activated or monitored is audit-trail mechanisms. Audit-trail mechanisms help to track and monitor access to patient records, ensuring that any unauthorized access or changes can be identified and investigated. However, these mechanisms may not always be active or regularly reviewed, leaving potential security gaps in the systemHow can policies ensure that sharing of digital records among health providers does not compromise the privacy of electronic health recordsWhat measures can be put in place to safeguard sensitive patient data against unauthorized access and breachesHow do we weigh the technological advancements in healthcare against the potential risks to individual privacy?