Perception, Acceptance and Readiness to Implement Electronic Health Management Information System (E.H.M.I.S.) among Health Professionals in Lautech Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Manual storage of patients’ records comes with several challenges. In developing countries like Nigeria, it is a pressing time to establish a solid and context-based health       information management system through innovative approaches. Electronic health management information systems are crucial for increasing the accessibility and management of medical information. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was done among health professionals in LAUTECH Teaching hospital Ogbomosho. The study included health professionals who have been working in the hospital for not less than a year. However, the study excluded health professionals who were sick during the study, contract staff, and those who were on leave during the study. Consent was taken from every participant during the study. Ethical clearance for the study was obtained from the Ethical Review Committee of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho. Statistical Package for social sciences (SPSS 25.0) was used for the statistical computations of the data. P-values less than 0.05 are considered statistically significant. Results: Two hundred thirty (230) questionnaires were distributed, but 209 were retrieved and available for analysis which translates to a response rate of 90.87%. A majority, 56.9% of the health workers, have practised for 1-10 years. Most of the respondents (79.4%) are aware of E.H.M.I.S. and have good knowledge (72%) of E.H.M.I.S. 84% of the respondents have a good perception of E.H.M.I.S. The challenges of E.H.M.I.S. perceived by respondents include lack of capital, computer illiteracy, cost of running, human resources issues, epileptic power supply, lack of awareness of E.H.M.I.S., lack of facilities, and maintenance issues. 80% are ready to implement E.H.M.I.S. in patient care, while 20% still need to be ready. Conclusion: This study showed that health workers in LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, have a good knowledge of Electronic Health Management and Information Systems (E.H.M.I.S.), with the majority aware of the benefits. Also, there is a good perception of E.H.M.I.S. The majority are willing to accept and ready to implement the usage of E.H.M.I.S. if the hospital provides support. However, there are challenges perceived by health workers.