Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

The primary purpose of a health information management system is to:

1. store medical records

2. enhance patient care quality

3. ensure billing accuracy

4. facilitate clinical research

The correct answer is: enhance patient care quality

The primary purpose of a health information management system is to enhance patient care quality. This encompasses a range of functions, including improving clinical decision-making, ensuring accurate and timely access to patient data, and supporting the continuity of care. By organizing and managing health information effectively, these systems help healthcare providers deliver better and more efficient care, which ultimately leads to improved outcomes for patients. While storing medical records is a fundamental function of health information management systems, it is not the overarching goal. Similarly, ensuring billing accuracy and facilitating clinical research are important aspects of healthcare processes, but they serve as supportive functions rather than primary objectives. The focal point remains on enhancing the quality of patient care, enabling healthcare professionals to make informed decisions based on comprehensive and accurate health information.