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Tip: Learn some common EHR entry authentication terms

EHR Connection, October 22, 2007

EHR entry authentication is necessary to ensure that your records are legally sound, says Debra Kohn, MPH, RHIA, FACHE, CPIHMS, principal of Dak Systems Consulting in San Mateo, CA.

Authentication, a process that ensures users are who they claim to be, prevents unauthorized users from accessing data or using another's identity to sign documents.

Kohn lists and explains some of the many terms associated with authentication:

Authorship refers to the origin of recorded information attributable to a specific individual or entity, according to AHIMA.

Signature is the usual method for authenticating most medical record entries or documents. It identifies the author or responsible party who takes ownership thereof and attests to the information contained therein. Signatures can be analog (nonelectronic) or digital (electronic).

There are three types of digital signatures.

E-signatures involve applying a password or biometric or other form of electronic authentication to and electronic document. For examples, doctors apply e-signatures when prescribing orders in a computerized system; their password serves as their signature and authenticates the document.

Digital signatures are encrypted, tamper-proof signatures that are less common because of the complexities of encryption.

Digitized signatures involve an image of a handwritten signature, almost like a rubber stamp or an e-mail in which the writer inserts his or her name in a font that resembles handwritten script. These are the easiest to forge, and consequently the weakest form of digital signatures.

This tip was brought to you by the October issue of Electronic Health Records Briefing Be sure to read the next issue of Electronic Health Record Connection to learn more terms associated with authentication.

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