The State of E-Records Readiness at the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital in Eswatini

This article presents findings on the e-records readiness status of the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital (RFMH) in Eswatini. The purpose of the study was to assess the level of e-records readiness at RFMH, where a client management information system (CMIS) was being implemented. The study triangulated three theories/models: the International Records Management Trust (IRMT) e-records readiness assessment tool; the Technological-Organisational-Environmental (T-O-E) framework; and the Community Clinic Electronic Health Record readiness assessment toolkit. The target population comprised 108 staff members. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, observations and document reviews. SPSS version 28.0.0.0 was used for quantitative data analysis and manual content analysis for qualitative data analysis. RFMH’s e-records readiness was at moderate risk owing to poor records management integration and fragmented electronic systems. Insufficient financial resources hinder staff training on electronic records management (ERM) and the CMIS. The study recommends harmonising electronic systems, implementing the Eswatini National Records Management Policy, fully implementing the CMIS and establishing service level agreements, use of official e-mails, and aligning pre-service training with digital healthcare.