Assessing electronic medical record usage in private healthcare facilities of Amhara region, Ethiopia

Despite advances in information technology, the adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs) in healthcare remains limited, and usage rates are still low. Understanding the current utilization of EMR systems in private health facilities is crucial for guiding future digital health integration, enhancing interoperability, and building the capacity of the health workforce. However, the use of EMR systems in private hospitals in the Amhara region has not been well documented. This study therefore aimed to assess the utilization of EMR systems and identify associated factors among health professionals working in private hospitals in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 13 to March 20, 2023, among 367 health professionals. Participants were selected through simple random sampling using computer-generated numbers from hospital-specific sampling frames via Open Epi software. Bivariate logistic regression was first performed, and variables with p < 0.25 were included in the multivariable analysis. Associations were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. A total of 351 respondents participated, yielding a response rate of 95.6%. Overall, 45.3% (95% CI: 41-50%) of health professionals reported utilizing the EMR system. Factors significantly associated with EMR utilization included access to basic EMR training (AOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.04-4.72), overall satisfaction of health care providers (AOR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.39-6.09), and a user-friendly EMR interface (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.12-4.13). The utilization of EMR systems by healthcare professionals in private health facilities was found to be suboptimal. Key factors influencing EMR use included lack of access to training, user satisfaction, and the system's interface usability. EMRs have the potential to improve health service performance if supported by continuous technical assistance and commitment to optimize their use. Developing EMR software tailored to local needs and conditions, along with sustained efforts to address barriers, is essential to ensure widespread and effective adoption and to fully realize the benefits of digital health records.