Which of the following best describes electronic health records (EHRs)?

The choice describing electronic health records (EHRs) as digital records that can be shared electronically accurately captures their essence and functionality. EHRs are comprehensive digital versions of a patient's paper chart and are designed to be shared across different healthcare settings. This electronic format enables healthcare providers to access and edit patient information quickly and efficiently, improving coordination of care. The ability to share these records electronically enhances communication among various healthcare professionals, leading to better patient outcomes.

In contrast, the other options describe attributes that do not align with the purpose and use of EHRs. Paper documents that are hard to access suggest traditional, non-digital records that lack the advantages of electronic systems, such as easy accessibility and update capabilities. Stating that records are stored in a filing cabinet reflects an outdated method of record-keeping that does not leverage the benefits of technology. Lastly, indicating that records are only used by insurance companies misrepresents the broad utility of EHRs, which are utilized by multiple stakeholders including healthcare providers, patients, and healthcare systems, not just for billing or insurance purposes. Thus, the description of EHRs as digital records that can be shared electronically encapsulates their modern function in healthcare effectively.