Anthem BC/BS allows doctors to access EMRs via cell phone

MANCHESTER, N.H. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire has unveiled new technology that will enable physicians to have secure access to online patient medical records and claims information from their mobile phones.

“Now all licensed New Hampshire practitioners who are part of our e-prescribing program are also able to access both medical records and claims data on Anthem members, anytime, anywhere by using their web-enabled cell phone,” said Richard Lafleur, medical director, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New Hampshire, who added that participants could also access the new program from their office or home computer.

The addition of the new technology, known as Member Medical History, further enhances the e-prescribing tool by delivering an unprecedented amount of clinical information to the physician wherever he or she may be. Now the doctor looking to generate an electronic prescription is able to quickly access their Anthem patient's medical history, getting valuable information on medical conditions and the patient's most recent care, test results, or diagnoses by other clinicians.

“Putting even more comprehensive information in the physician's hands at the time care decisions are being made improves quality and efficiency,” said Charles Kennedy, vice president of health information technology for Anthem. “E-prescribing and MMH are good examples of how Anthem can use technology to create a community benefit for all patients while still delivering unique value for our members.”