A Usability Framework for Electronic Health Records in Nigerian Healthcare Sector

The usability of Electronic Health Record systems, while recognized as critical for successful adoption and meaningful use, has not historically received the same level of attention as other software features, functions, and technical requirements. In the Nigerian healthcare sector, it was observed that only few had adopted the use of electronic health record. The traditional method of keeping patient records which involves the use of paper and files is the system that is practiced till date. This paper-based system had been useful but no longer adequate as a result of some likely errors that occur like illegible handwriting of medical practitioners, improper care of patients’ record, poor accessibility rate to patient’s files, high cost of registration and payment for treatments; as well as wrong diagnosis due to inaccurate diagnostic decisions made. Although there are numerous EHR in market and due to the importance of this software, it is necessary to determine the usability of the software. Hence, this paper proposed a framework that enhances the usability of Electronic Health Record systems in Nigeria healthcare sectors. KeywordsElectronic Health Record (EHR) system, Paper-based system, Healthcare sector, Adoption, Usability.