Knowledge of Health Information Management Professionals on Digital Health Record at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Shika, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigates the knowledge of Health Information Management (HIM) professionals on digital health records at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) Shika, Zaria. A survey research design was adopted, with a population comprising 86 selected staff members involved in HIM activities within the hospital. Total enumeration was employed for data collection. A well-structured questionnaire was developed to gather primary data, covering key aspects of digital health records knowledge such as functionalities, data security, interoperability, and implications for patient care. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 was utilized for data analysis, employing descriptive statistics to summarize sample characteristics and interpret quantitative data obtained from the survey responses. The rigorous use of SPSS ensured reliability and validity of findings, facilitating evidence-based recommendations to enhance HIM practices in digital health records at ABUTH Shika. Out of 90 distributed questionnaires to the staff of Health Information Management Department ABUTH Shika, Zaria, 75 were returned. The findings reveal various challenges faced in the digitalization of health records among HIM professionals in ABUTH Shika. These include inadequate electricity supply (13%), inadequate ICT infrastructure (20%), lack of basic ICT skills (27%), lack of funds for ICT acquisition (20%), high cost of internet service (7%), and poor internet connectivity (13%). Notably, the majority of respondents (27%) identified the lack of basic ICT skills as the main challenge. Additionally, perceptions regarding digitalization of health records were assessed, with respondents indicating high levels of convenience (20%) and efficiency (20%), while also highlighting difficulties in adoption (21%). In conclusion, the findings suggest a favorable perception of digitalization of health records among HIM professionals, despite challenges in implementation, emphasizing the importance of addressing skill gaps and infrastructure limitations to optimize digital health record management at ABUTH Shika.