Enabling patients to provide feedback on the medication lists in their medical records can improve the accuracy of the patients’ medical records, according to a new study published in eGems (Generating Evidence and Methods to Improve Patient Outcomes).

The researchers found that patients generally were “eager” to offer feedback on their EHRs, and provided accurate and useful information about their medications. Specifically, pharmacists said patient feedback was accepted in 80% of the cases and resulted in record changes such as changing a type of drug, revealing a potential overdose, or updating dosage frequency.

The study noted that feedback opportunities also enhance patient engagement, as they are prompted to thoroughly review their own records, and the results also suggest that patient feedback could help providers comply with HIPAA regulations on EHR access and amendments.

For the study, researchers reviewed a Geisinger Health System initiative that permits patients to view their medication lists before visiting the doctor and provide feedback if there are inaccuracies. Pharmacists followed up with patients that requested changes before finalizing the requests. Of 457 completed forms, 414 were included in the analysis .

Find the complete study here.

“Patients can be effectively engaged online to improve the accuracy of the information stored in their EHRs. They also provide valuable insights into effective strategies for gathering and processing patient feedback, and showcase the opportunity for EHRs to assist in maintaining accurate and complete medical records”.