Use of Health Information Systems by Doctors in the Cardiac Center at Al-Thawra Hospital in Sana'a Yemen

Abstract

Background: The use of electronic health information system would help the administration to improve medical services and help doctors make decisions. Health information system is very important in health facilities, both public and private, in preserving and storing patient data in large quantities, retrieval in a timely manner without reference to the traditional ways in the search for patient files, and during the return of the patient. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the use of Health Information System by doctors in the ‎Cardiac Centre at Al-Thawra Hospital. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive quantitative study was conducted. Data collection questionnaires were filled by 40 doctors from different departments in the ‎Cardiac Centre at Al-Thawra Hospital. Results: The results of this study revealed that 60% of the doctors frequently record all medical information in the patient file, 55% occasionally use the health information system for research, and 55% use the HIS in making diagnostic decisions. The main challenges faced by doctors when they using HIS were lack of training, lack of accurate information, lack of knowledge and experience, lack of financial allocations, and lack of the skills needed to operate and maintain the electronic health information system. Conclusion: There is need to improve the skills and knowledge of doctors about appropriate use of the health information in medical services.