What defines a Personal Medical Record (PMR)?

A Personal Medical Record (PMR) is defined as an electronic record managed by patients. This means that individuals have control over their own health information and can add, update, and access their medical data as they see fit. The PMR empowers patients by allowing them to take ownership of their health information, ensuring that they have easy access to their medical history, medications, allergies, and other relevant health information. This personal management aspect distinguishes PMRs from other types of health records that are generally controlled or maintained by healthcare providers.

In contrast, a health record controlled by healthcare providers focuses on the provider's perspective of patient care, limiting patient interaction with their medical records. A system for entering physician orders is unrelated to personal management of health information; it pertains to the workflow of clinical operations rather than patient engagement. A database for clinical decision support serves a different purpose within healthcare, typically aiding medical personnel in making informed clinical decisions rather than allowing for patient control or management.