While some older physicians may feel reluctant to adopt electronic health records, evidence continues to emerge indicating that younger doctors may be key to pushing an industry-wide transition to EHRs.

A recent survey of Canadian medical students showed that 78.6 percent of individuals have been exposed to EHRs at some point in their training. Furthermore, 81.5 percent said they expect to use the technology when they begin their own practices.

"As new doctors enter the work force, they bring new approaches to the practice of medicine," said Dr. John Haggie, president of the Canadian Medical Association, the group that conducted the survey. "They understand intuitively that they can provide high quality, patient‐centered care through the use of new technology and other tools."

The results suggest that practices hoping to attract new physicians may benefit from implementing EHR systems. Older doctors may feel more comfortable working in a paper-based system, but the future of care lies in electronic record keeping. Younger medical professionals are increasingly preparing to embrace this future.