Hearings to focus on electronic records

MADISON (AP) - Five hearings are planned across Wisconsin next month to get input on how to implement a statewide system for sharing patient medical records.

Creating such a system is necessary for Wisconsin and health care providers to compete for $36 billion in federal stimulus money.

The state Department of Health Services says a 2008 survey showed that about 79 percent of office-based doctors are currently using, or are in the process of implementing electronic health records.

A fully integrated system would allow any doctor in the state to share patient information with another doctor through the click of a button.

The hearings are planned in Appleton, Sauk City, Superior, Milwaukee and Marshfield. Appleton's hearing is scheduled for 8 a.m.-12 p.m. July 1 at City Center.

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