In reality, handwriting issues aside, there is little wrong with "the old medical chart" from an information science perspective. It evolved over a century or longer to serve the needs of its users. It is a simple document in terms of organization, containing sometimes complex information but in an easy to find form (when maintained by humans properly) and in a presentation style that recognizes human cognitive limitations in very busy, complex social environments such as patient care settings.

Its quasi-duplication in electronic form would serve medicine well.

I agree. And now the technology is finally here. Just look at the new SI magazine 2.0 that may be coming out on the iTablet http://bit.ly/52xEhs

All the functionality of a paper chart, but e-enabled with video and rich design.

Let's put together a project to do just that but better for medical records.