The computer-based record: patient moving from concept toward reality

In 1991 the Institute of Medicine issued a report on improving patient records which has proven to be a landmark for the many individuals and institutions involved in the development of computer-based patient records (CPRs). The report called Computer-based Patient Records: An Essential Technology for Health Care, recommended that CPRs become the primary form for patient records, and urged widespread implementation of CPRs within a decade. It also provides a framework for reviewing the current status of CPRs. In reviewing progress that has been made toward CPRs since the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report was released, it is useful to look beyond the IOM report's major focus on efforts in the USA and include international activities related to CPR development and implementation. Looking forward, CPR efforts are likely to be expedited through greater collaboration.