Socio-technical considerations in epilepsy electronic patient record implementation.

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Clinical Systems Implementation
• Socio-technical Systems Analysis

Background:

• Electronic patient records (EPR) are increasingly adopted in healthcare settings.
• Successful implementation requires understanding the socio-technical interface.
• This study focuses on an anti-epileptic drug (AED) management module within an EPR system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usability and usefulness of an AED management module in a live epilepsy out-patient clinic.
• To assess the impact of EPR implementation on clinical work processes and data accuracy.
• To identify challenges and facilitators for successful EPR integration.

Main Methods:

• An observational field study utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Involved a purposeful sample of epilepsy care specialists (2 doctors, 2 nurses).
• Evaluated user perception, work process impact, and data accuracy via feedback, ethnographic analysis, and data validation.

Main Results:

• Participants reported satisfaction with the AED module's usability and performance.
• The co-existence of paper and electronic records, and changes to work practices were major challenges.
• An 82% accuracy rate was achieved in the use of the electronic record.

Conclusions:

• Successful EPR implementation is complex, involving both technical and social considerations.
• Initial implementation may lead to medical record fragmentation and workflow disruption.
• Managing a lengthy transition phase is crucial for realizing the full benefits of EPR systems.