Which of the following is an example of a technological limitation of the electronic health record?

Disparate systems represent a significant technological limitation in the context of electronic health records (EHRs). When health information systems are disparate, it means that different healthcare organizations or departments utilize various systems that are not compatible with one another. This fragmentation can hinder the seamless exchange of health information, creating barriers to effective communication and comprehensive patient care.

In an ideal system, EHRs should be interconnected to ensure that data flows smoothly across different settings, providing a holistic view of patient health and history. Disparate systems can lead to issues such as incomplete patient records and increased administrative workload, which may negatively impact the quality of care provided to patients.

Interoperability, while it may seem like a limitation, actually refers to the ability of different systems to communicate effectively, which is a goal rather than a limitation. Non-proprietary systems suggest an openness that encourages collaboration and sharing of information, while structured data use facilitates easier data retrieval and analysis. None of these aspects align with the fundamental problems posed by disparate systems, which clearly exemplify a technological limitation in electronic health records.