Table of Contents
Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 8
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 9
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 10
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 11
CHAPTER TWO.. 13
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 13
2.1 Introduction.. 13
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 15
2.4 Empirical Review.. 19
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 21
Chapter Three.. 22
Research Methodology.. 22
3.1 Introduction.. 22
3.2 Research Design.. 22
3.3 Population and Sample.. 22
3.4 Sampling Technique.. 23
3.5 Data Collection Instruments. 23
3.6 Data Collection Procedure.. 24
3.7 Data Analysis Techniques. 25
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 25
3.9 Limitations of the Study.. 25
3.10 Conclusion.. 26
CHAPTER FOUR.. 27
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 27
4.1 Preamble.. 27
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 27
TABLES BASED ON RESEARCH QUESTIONS.. 32
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one:. 32
Discussion of Findings. 47
CHAPTER FIVE.. 50
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.. 50
5.1 Summary of Findings. 50
5.2 Conclusion.. 50
5.3 Recommendations. 51
REFERENCES.. 54
Research Questionnaire on "THE IMPACT OF ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS (EHRS) ON THE QUALITY AND EFFICIENCY OF HEALTHCARE DELIVERY IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF UUTH, UYO).". 57
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed a significant transformation in its healthcare landscape with the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). This technological advancement has profoundly impacted the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery across the nation. EHRs have revolutionized traditional paper-based record-keeping systems by digitizing patient information, enabling healthcare providers to access comprehensive medical histories instantaneously. This accessibility enhances clinical decision-making, promotes continuity of care, and ultimately contributes to better health outcomes for patients throughout Nigeria (Smith et al., 2020).
Furthermore, the implementation of EHRs has streamlined administrative processes within healthcare facilities, leading to increased operational efficiency. Tasks such as appointment scheduling, billing, and inventory management are now automated, reducing the burden on administrative staff and allowing them to focus more on patient care. Moreover, the utilization of EHRs facilitates communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals, enabling seamless coordination of care and the timely exchange of critical patient information (Ajami & Bagheri-Tadi, 2013).
However, despite the numerous benefits, challenges persist in the widespread adoption and effective utilization of EHRs in Nigeria. Issues such as limited infrastructure, inadequate training of healthcare personnel, and concerns regarding data security and privacy pose significant hurdles to the full realization of EHR potential (Olalekan & Mbarika, 2019). Addressing these challenges requires strategic investments in technology infrastructure, comprehensive training programs, and robust data protection measures to ensure the successful integration and sustained use of EHRs in the Nigerian healthcare system.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) into the Nigerian healthcare system has undoubtedly introduced numerous benefits, yet it also poses several challenges that warrant investigation. Firstly, despite the potential for improved quality of care and enhanced efficiency, the adoption of EHRs in Nigeria faces barriers related to infrastructure limitations and resource constraints (Adaji et al., 2016). Insufficient technological infrastructure in many healthcare facilities impedes the seamless implementation and utilization of EHR systems, limiting their ability to streamline processes and improve patient outcomes. Secondly, concerns regarding data security and privacy remain prominent amidst the transition to digital record-keeping. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and data breaches globally, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of patient information stored within EHRs is paramount to maintaining trust in the healthcare system (Oyebisi et al., 2018).
Moreover, the effective integration of EHRs hinges not only on technological considerations but also on human factors such as healthcare provider readiness and user acceptance. Resistance to change, lack of adequate training, and unfamiliarity with EHR systems among healthcare professionals can hinder their adoption and utilization, thereby undermining the potential benefits they offer (Okafor et al., 2020). Additionally, disparities in access to EHR technology across different regions and healthcare settings within Nigeria exacerbate inequalities in healthcare delivery, raising questions about the equitable distribution of resources and the extent to which EHRs contribute to improving healthcare outcomes for all segments of the population. Addressing these multifaceted challenges is essential to harnessing the full potential of EHRs in enhancing the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the impact of electronic health records (EHRs) on the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the impact of EHRs on data quality in Nigerian healthcare facilities
- To evaluate the influence of EHRs on clinical decision-making and patient outcomes
- To explore the effect of EHRs on healthcare efficiency and provider workflow
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent do EHRs improve the completeness and accuracy of patient medical records in Nigerian hospitals compared to paper-based systems?
- Does the implementation of EHRs with clinical decision support systems lead to a reduction in medication errors and improved treatment recommendations in Nigerian healthcare settings?
- How does the adoption of EHRs impact the time spent by healthcare professionals on administrative tasks and patient consultations in Nigerian facilities?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of electronic health records (EHRs) on the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Health Information Management sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to UUTH, Uyo. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
