Users’ Perception on Factors Contributing to Electronic Medical Records Systems Use: A Focus Group Discussion Study in Healthcare Facilities Setting in Kenya

Abstract

Background Electronic Medical Records systems (EMRs) adoption in healthcare to facilitate work processes have become common in many countries. Although EMRs are associated with quality patient care, patient safety and cost reduction, their adoption rates are comparatively low. Understanding factors associated with usage of implemented EMRs are critical for advancing successful implementations and scale-up sustainable initiatives. The aim of this study was to explore end users’ perceptions and experiences on factors facilitating and hindering EMRs use in healthcare facilities in Kenya. Methods Focus group discussions were conducted with EMRs users (n=20) each representing a healthcare facility determined by the performance of the EMRs implementation. Content analysis was performed on the transcribed data and relevant themes derived.Results Six thematic categories for both facilitators and barriers emerged, and these related to: (1) system functionalities; (2) training; (3) technical support; (4) human factors; (5) infrastructure, and (6) EMR operation mode. The identified facilitators included: easiness of use and learning of the system, efficiency of EMRs in patient data management, responsiveness of Information Technical (IT) support, user training on EMR system upgrades. The identified barriers included: frequent power blackouts, inadequate computers, retrospective data entry (RDE) EMRs operation mode, lack of continuous training on system upgrades, and delayed IT support. Conclusion Users in an LMIC setting generally believed that the EMRs improved work process, with multiple identified facilitators and barriers to their use. Most users perceived system functionality and training as motivators to EMRs use, while infrastructure challenge was the greatest barrier.

A Comprehensive Review of Current Developments and Future Outlook Pertaining to Electronic Medical Records in the Context of Saudi Arabia, Aimed at Enhancing the Healthcare System

“…Anderson & Agarwal [8] discovered that individuals' willingness to provide access to their health information was negatively affected by concerns about privacy. On the other hand, Dinev et al [24] observed a limited correlation between attitudes towards electronic health records and concerns about privacy related to health information.…”

“…In Saudi Arabia, EMR systems were introduced in 1988 to enhance the country's healthcare system and services, aligning with the objectives set by the Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) [7]. The MOH has prioritized the nationwide adoption of EMRs as a means to enhance the flow of patient information, reduce errors, and prevent record duplication [8]. Several successful instances of EMR adoption are evident in Saudi Arabia, with some hospitals even receiving recognition for their achievements in this area [9].…”

A Comprehensive Review of Current Developments and Future Outlook Pertaining to Electronic Medical Records in the Context of Saudi Arabia, Aimed at Enhancing the Healthcare System

“…In Saudi Arabia, EMR systems were introduced in 1988 to enhance the country's healthcare system and services, aligning with the objectives set by the Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) [5]. The MOH has prioritized the nationwide adoption of EMRs as a means to enhance the flow of patient information, reduce errors, and prevent record duplication [6]. Several successful instances of EMR adoption are evident in Saudi Arabia, with some hospitals even receiving recognition for their achievements in this area [7].…”