Abstract. 2
CHAPTER ONE.. 5
INTRODUCTION.. 5
1.1 Background to the Study.. 5
.. 6
1.2 Statement of the Problem... 6
1.3 Objectives of the Study.. 7
1.4 Research Questions. 8
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 8
1.6 Significance of the Study.. 9
1.7 Scope of the Study.. 9
1.8 Limitations of the Study.. 10
1.9 Organization of the Study.. 10
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE.. 12
2.1 Introduction.. 12
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.. 23
3.3 Population and Sample.. 23
3.4 Data Collection Methods. 24
3.5 Data Analysis Techniques. 25
3.6 Validity and Reliability.. 26
3.7 Ethical Considerations. 26
3.8 Limitations of the Study.. 26
3.9 Summary.. 27
CHAPTER FOUR.. 27
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.. 27
4.2 DATA ANALYSIS.. 27
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 43
Discussion of Findings. 44
CHAPTER FIVE.. 47
SUMMARY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.. 47
5.1 Summary of Findings. 47
5.2 Conclusion.. 48
5.3 Recommendations. 49
REFERENCES.. 51
Research Questionnaire: Implementation and Impact of Electronic Health Records (EHR) in Nigerian Healthcare Systems (A Case Study of Usman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital). 54
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) has emerged as a pivotal advancement in modernizing healthcare systems worldwide, including Nigeria. As a nation striving to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality, Nigeria has increasingly embraced EHR technologies to streamline patient data management, improve clinical decision-making, and optimize healthcare delivery. The integration of EHR systems holds promise for revolutionizing healthcare practices by facilitating efficient data exchange among healthcare providers, enhancing patient engagement, and ultimately, fostering better health outcomes for the Nigerian population. Adebayo, B., & Yusuf, R. (2020).
EHR implementation in Nigeria has not only addressed longstanding challenges related to paper-based record-keeping but has also catalyzed significant transformations across various facets of the healthcare ecosystem. From enhancing care coordination among healthcare professionals to empowering patients with easier access to their medical history, the adoption of EHR systems has ushered in a new era of healthcare efficiency and effectiveness in Nigeria. However, the journey towards widespread EHR adoption in the Nigerian healthcare sector is not devoid of challenges, including infrastructural limitations, interoperability issues, and data privacy concerns, which necessitate strategic interventions and collaborative efforts to ensure sustainable implementation and maximize the impact of EHR technologies. Obansa, S. A., & Oyewola, Y. (2019).
This article aims to delve into the multifaceted dimensions of EHR implementation in Nigerian healthcare systems, exploring its implications on clinical practice, healthcare delivery, and patient outcomes. By examining the current landscape of EHR adoption, identifying key challenges, and highlighting success stories and best practices, this discourse seeks to provide insights into harnessing the full potential of EHR technologies to transform Nigeria's healthcare landscape positively. Through a comprehensive analysis informed by empirical evidence and expert perspectives, this article endeavors to offer valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders involved in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Oche, M. O., Adeniji, F. O., & Adagiri, G. A. (2018).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the promising potential of Electronic Health Records (EHR) to revolutionize healthcare delivery in Nigeria, several challenges hinder their effective implementation and realization of impactful outcomes. One significant issue lies in the inadequate infrastructure and technological readiness across many healthcare facilities in the country. The lack of robust internet connectivity, unreliable power supply, and limited access to modern computing devices pose substantial barriers to the seamless integration and utilization of EHR systems (Oche & Adeniji, 2018). Moreover, the diversity of EHR platforms and the absence of standardized protocols for data exchange and interoperability exacerbate the fragmentation of health information systems, impeding efficient communication and collaboration among healthcare providers (Obansa & Oyewola, 2019).
Furthermore, concerns regarding data privacy and security present critical challenges in the widespread adoption of EHR systems in Nigerian healthcare settings. The vulnerability of electronic health data to unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyber threats raises significant apprehensions among both healthcare providers and patients, undermining trust in EHR technologies (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2020). Without robust mechanisms for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of health information, the potential benefits of EHR systems in improving clinical decision-making, enhancing care coordination, and empowering patients remain compromised, hindering the overall transformation of Nigeria's healthcare landscape. Addressing these multifaceted challenges is imperative to unlock the full potential of EHR technologies and realize their transformative impact on healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Implementation and Impact of Electronic Health Records (EHR) in Nigerian Healthcare Systems. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the impact of EHR implementation on data quality in Nigerian healthcare facilities.
- To evaluate user satisfaction and adoption of EHR systems among healthcare professionals in Nigeria.
- To explore the potential of EHR for improving healthcare service delivery in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- To what extent does EHR implementation improve the completeness and accuracy of patient medical records in Nigerian hospitals compared to paper-based systems?
- What are the perceptions and attitudes of Nigerian healthcare professionals towards EHR systems, including perceived benefits and challenges?
- In what ways can EHR systems be used to enhance communication and collaboration among healthcare providers involved in a patient's care journey across different facilities in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) on the efficiency and quality of healthcare delivery in Nigerian healthcare systems.
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 Usman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital. 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.
