EMR Metadata Uses and E-Discovery

In this article, the author discusses how the metadata found in an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) can be used as evidence in litigation under the 2006 amended Rules of Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of Evidence. The article first reviews how EMR metadata can profile the actions a physician takes when caring for a patient. The author then looks at the relevant changes to the Rules and analyzes case law concerning both electronic discovery (e-discovery) and metadata. Finally, the author examines how EMR metadata specifically impacts physicians who are involved in litigation, as metadata may be used as the standard for authentication of the EMR and can give insight into a patient's clinical outcome.