If an MAA discovers an error in an EMR from a past visit, what should they do?

The recommended action of making a new entry in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) with the correct information upholds the integrity and accuracy of the medical record. This approach not only allows for the correction of the error but also maintains a complete audit trail of all entries, ensuring that both past and current information can be reviewed when needed.

Correcting an error by creating a new entry fosters transparency, showing the original information alongside the correction. It is essential for patient safety and the continuity of care, as healthcare providers need to understand the patient's history comprehensively. Maintaining such practices aligns with legal and ethical standards in healthcare documentation, ensuring that medical records accurately reflect all aspects of patient care.

Deleting the error could lead to misinformation about past care and the loss of valuable historical data. Leaving the incorrect information unaddressed would not rectify the potential issues stemming from that error. Highlighting the error for the provider does not resolve the situation adequately and can lead to confusion in interpreting the patient record. Overall, documenting the correction through a new entry is the best practice in managing errors in EMRs.