Improving Folic Acid Supplementation Through Electronic Medical Record Interface Modifications-A Retrospective Study.

Area of Science:

• Preventive Medicine
• Health Informatics
• Public Health

Background:

• Folic acid is crucial for DNA synthesis and fetal development, preventing anemia and pregnancy complications.
• Current guidelines recommend universal folic acid supplementation for women of reproductive age.
• Low adherence to supplementation necessitates novel strategies for improved preventive care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of an electronic medical record (EMR) interface modification on folic acid testing rates.
• To evaluate changes in folic acid deficiency detection and supplement consumption post-intervention.
• To determine the effectiveness of digital health interventions in promoting preventive health behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort analysis of 43,952 women aged 18-42 years.
• Comparison of testing, deficiency, and supplement data one year pre- and post-EMR interface modification.
• Statistical analysis using Chi-squared tests and logistic regression, controlling for age and socio-geographic factors.

Main Results:

• Folic acid testing rates increased from 14.74% to 17.35% (p < 0.0001).
• Deficiency detection rose from 6.30% to 7.38% (p < 0.0001).
• Supplement consumption tripled from 5.45% to 15.98% (p < 0.0001), with most users being new.

Conclusions:

• EMR interface modifications can significantly enhance folic acid testing and supplement use.
• Digital interventions show promise for improving preventive care and health outcomes.
• Further research is needed on the scalability and long-term impact of such interventions.