Implantation of a computerised clinical history: survey on the degree of utilisation and satisfaction in a tertiary hospital

Abstract

Background. To assess the utilization of an electronic medical record (EMR), the degree of satisfaction with this tool, as well as to detect problems in its utilization, in a tertiary hospital in Spain. Methods. A survey was sent by mail to all physicians in the Virgen del Camino Hospital in Pamplona, Spain. Results. Out of 445 staff physicians, 174 answered the survey (39%). Seventy-nine percent considered that the EMR is better than the traditional, paper-based medical record. Sixty-one percent used the EMR for consultation and to introduce clinical data in a regular way. Fifty-five percent agreed that the EMR has advantages for the patient. The main problems detected are a loss in confidentiality, lack of time, insufficient number of computers, and inadequate training. Ninety percent answered that EMR implementation should be continued and only 6% are dissatisfied with the computer application. Conclusions. There is a high degree of utilization of the EMR in the Virgen del Camino Hospital. Measures should be implemented to resolve the problems detected in this survey.