Optimizing Electronic Health Records with Behavioral Economics

Source: Forbes, October, 25, 2016 In an op-ed for Forbes, Mitesh Patel, MD, MBA, MS discusses the application of behavioral economics principles to electronic health records (EHRs), particularly in relation to generic prescriptions in light of increasing drug costs. Dr. Patel says “Because EHRs have become ubiquitous, how they are designed impacts people across the country—for better or for worse. Behavioral modifications to the EHR interface can ensure that more patients are prescribed the lower-cost generic option when it is available.”