EMR(electronic medical record)=Medical texting while "driving"

It is clearly evident that the push for EMR(electronic medical records)continues. The national healthcare community fueled by goverment incentives continues to drive this trend. We are enamored by this technology whether we like it or not. As I walk down the corridors of a major New Jersey medical center, I cannot help but notice rows of medical professionals transfixed to computer screens as if they were seduced by the data before them. It consumes their attention. The patients are awaiting to be seen or have recently been evaluated. The professionals peruse the data and robotically configure the information into a medical "note". We cannot deny that this is a laborious process even for the most adept typists. I often thank God that I paid attention in Ms. McGillicutty's high school typing class not knowing then how important this skill would prove to be at this stage in my career! In all seriousness, I can reasonably understand the rationale and motivation to adopt this technology. The consolidation of data would certainly avoid the duplication of unnecessary services which could have astronomical savings in the context of an exorbitant and escalating national healthcare bill. But, let us not forget, first and foremost, the PATIENT. The number of hours in the day is unchanged and the additional computer tasks certainly extracts time from the traditional doctor-patient encounter. Futhermore, It's unfortunate that many physicians have resigned themselves to enter data using computer tablets during the patient encounter and avoiding any direct eye contact with the patient. It's very easy for the patient to feel distant and ignored from such an encounter leading to further erosion of the doctor-patient relationship. There was a time not too long ago when texting while driving was not regarded as hazardous. That was soon to change and the penalties are currently steep for those committing this act. For that matter, any distraction while driving is dangerous. EMR, can easily be equated to medical texting while "driving". While not recognized now, it may not be very long before we realize the detrimental effects on the quality of patient care and the doctor-patient relationship. Only time will tell whether this technology has irreparable damages.