Some diseases like diabetes require frequent management, which can burden patients and make them less likely to take appropriate precautions. However, experts say that electronic health records may be able to boost the care of these individuals.

The technology can allow a person to access their full medical record at any time. This may help them determine if they need to test their blood sugar or even if a trip to their doctor is necessary. Donald Jones, a diabetic from North Carolina, told the ONC's Health IT Buzz that this has enabled him to improve his condition while still living a normal life.

"One of the best things is that I can now go right into my electronic health record to see my latest lab reports right from the comfort of my own home," he said. "If I have a question, I simply go to [my doctor's] website and email her, and she emails me back with answers."

Researchers are increasingly proving the benefits of these types of services. A team of investigators from the Cleveland Clinic recently reported in the New England Journal of Medicine that diabetic patients who are treated using EHRs are more likely to adhere to standards of care and to experience better health outcomes, including blood sugar management.