Enhancing Usability in Electronic Health Records: A User-Centered Approach to Workflow Integration and Training

Abstract

Background: Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have transformed healthcare delivery by consolidating patient data and enabling immediate access to essential information. Although they have the capacity to improve clinical workflows and decision-making, usability issues continue to pose a substantial obstacle to effective EHR deployment. Challenges including interface complexity, workflow misalignment, and user dissatisfaction adversely affect provider efficiency and jeopardize patient safety.

Aim: This article seeks to examine techniques for enhancing the usability of EHR systems, focusing on user-centered design, interaction with clinical workflows, and improved training protocols to rectify existing deficiencies..

Methods: The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, comprising a systematic examination of peer-reviewed literature qualitative analysis of usability difficulties via case studies, and quantitative data regarding the effects of usability enhancements in clinical environments. Interviews with healthcare professionals offer further insights into actual usability issues and possible remedies..

Results: Findings indicate crucial areas of improvement, including the need for configurable interfaces, efficient procedures, and improved training tailored to varied user groups. Case studies illustrate quantifiable improvements in clinician efficiency, user happiness, and patient safety indicators after implementing usability-centered treatments.

Conclusion: Enhancing EHR usability is essential for optimizing its transformative capacity in healthcare. A user-centric methodology, combined with comprehensive training and workflow integration, can substantially alleviate usability issues. Cooperative initiatives across stakeholders, such as legislators, developers, and healthcare organizations, are crucial for fostering sustainable advancements.