The “adoption of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems has become imperative in modern
healthcare settings, aiming to enhance service quality and patient satisfaction. This research,
conducted at Kibagabaga Hospital in Rwanda, delves into the impact of EMR systems on
healthcare services and patient experiences. The primary aim is to assess the influence of EMR
implementation on the quality of healthcare services and patient satisfaction.”
The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining case study and cohort designs. The
study population made up by staff members and daily patients that they receive which gave sample
size of 156 participants using random sampling technique includes 60 healthcare professionals and
96 patients at Kibagabaga Hospital. Data collection involves questionnaires, interviews, document
reviews, and observations to provide a comprehensive understanding of EMR usage and its impact.
The study reveals critical challenges in the implementation of EMR systems. Healthcare
professionals encounter technical issues (50%), data security concerns (25%), and a combination
of both challenges (75%). Patients report improvements in service speed (65%) yet face challenges
in providing additional information (60%) and correcting errors in their records.
To address the identified challenges, a robust solution involves prioritizing interoperability. The
study finds that 100% of healthcare professionals face interoperability challenges due to a system
that is not updated for it. The proposed solution emphasizes updating and integrating systems to
facilitate seamless data exchange among healthcare providers.
Governmental Intervention for Interoperability: Given the overarching interoperability challenge,
it is recommended that the government takes a leading role in updating and standardizing EMR
systems across healthcare facilities. Collaborative efforts can mitigate data fragmentation and
improve care coordination.
Continuous Training for Healthcare Professionals: To enhance efficiency and accuracy, continuous
training programs should be implemented for healthcare professionals. This includes addressing
technical challenges and ensuring a smooth transition to electronic record-keeping.
In conclusion, this research sheds light on the multifaceted impact of EMR systems in healthcare,
emphasizing the need for strategic interventions to overcome challenges and optimize the benefits
of electronic medical records.