Is it safe to go paperless?

A common myth among senior surgeons in Sri Lanka is that "The SLMC requires handwritten notes." This is false.

Modern medical regulations not only permit Electronic Medical Records (EMR) but actually encourage them for better patient safety. However, your software must meet specific criteria to be compliant.

1. The "Audit Trail" Requirement

You cannot use Microsoft Word or Excel for patient records. Why? Because you can delete a line and no one would know. Compliant software (like DentalDesk) maintains an Audit Log. If you edit a clinical note, the system keeps a hidden history of the original text. This protects you in court.

2. Data Residency & Privacy

Under the Personal Data Protection Act No. 9 of 2022, you are responsible for your patient's data.

• Do not store data on a physical hard drive (Ransomware risk).
• Do use a cloud provider with encryption.

3. Digital Prescriptions

Can pharmacies accept digital prescriptions? Yes, provided they are clearly legible and contain the doctor's SLMC registration number. DentalDesk's "Quick Prescribe" feature generates a PDF that meets all pharmacy regulatory standards.

Summary

Going digital is not just legal; it is the best way to protect your license. Paper records fade, get lost, or can be stolen. Encrypted cloud records are forever.