MINNEAPOLIS June 19, 2008—A survey of more than 2,700 physicians nationwide shows that relatively few have made the switch to electronic health records, with the biggest barrier to switching being the high cost.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that only 17 percent of physicians have installed EHR systems. But the few who invested in quality systems claim improved patient care, fewer medication errors, and better management of tests.

Just 117 physicians (4 percent) had high-end "Cadillac" systems that included a full menu of functionality ranging from electronic charting capabilities to e-prescribing features and decision support tools.

Of physicians who do use EHRs , 47 percent acknowledged that high cost was a barrier to expanding use of the system.

Story at MedPage Today