As we announced in a previous post, we are requesting comments on the Universal Electronic Records Management Requirements as part of our Federal Electronic Records Modernization Initiative (FERMI).
Please share widely so we can receive comments from a variety of stakeholders. We would like to receive all comments by Friday, December 30, 2022. If you have any questions, please leave a comment or email us at rmpolicy@nara.gov
I understand that this policy came out years ago, but it seems that no one took it seriously. It was not widely publicized.
Researchers are swamped with their daily activities and are having a problem finding time to manage their old records as well. Some had converted to all digital processing, which was great news! Others are under extreme stress trying to meet the Dec. 31 deadline.
In addition, some of the requirements, option to scan for example, are nearly impossible to meet because of the costs involved. Some of our researchers have 15 – 20 years worth of records, many of which continue to be referenced for patients that are still being treated or monitored. Even if we have an extension, I’m not sure we will have the funds to scan them all!
As someone out in the field, I can tell you this has been the most stressful year of the 18 years I’ve worked in records for the government. Please, give us a break and sign the extension!!