Final answer:
A fully functioning EHR system provides distinct advantages including enhanced access for physicians, patient access from home, and real-time record access for multiple providers, while also aiming to reduce healthcare costs. Privacy concerns, however, must be carefully managed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The additional advantages of a fully functioning Electronic Health Record (EHR) program include the ability for physicians to access records from any computer with a secure access code, which enhances the accessibility and continuity of care. Patients also benefit as they can access their complete medical record from home, ensuring that they are informed and engaged in their healthcare. Moreover, providers in various locations have the capability to view and work on the same record concurrently, which can improve collaboration and coordination between different care teams. The transition to EHRs has been significantly encouraged by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which supports the switch to reduce administrative costs and healthcare costs overall. Despite these benefits, it is crucial to address privacy concerns, balance the costs of treatments and diagnoses, and maintain patient quality of life while ensuring efficient healthcare delivery.