The effect of healthcare information systems on reducing patient record errors: A study of hospitals in Benue State
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Background of the study
The introduction of healthcare information systems (HIS) has revolutionized the management of patient records, aiming to improve healthcare delivery and reduce errors. HIS typically includes electronic health records (EHRs), which centralize patient data, enhancing accessibility, accuracy, and security of information (Tijani et al., 2024). In the context of Nigerian hospitals, including those in Benue State, record errors remain a significant concern, contributing to poor healthcare outcomes, misdiagnoses, and treatment delays. These errors can arise from miscommunication, poor handwriting, and lost physical records, which impede efficient patient care (Olaniyan & Ayeni, 2023).
Inadequate infrastructure, outdated technologies, and insufficient staff training in hospitals have exacerbated the issue of record errors. Healthcare information systems offer a potential solution by digitizing patient data, ensuring more accurate and easily accessible records (Ogunyemi et al., 2023). Despite these promising benefits, the adoption and integration of HIS in Benue State hospitals remain limited, mainly due to factors such as financial constraints, lack of technical expertise, and resistance to change among healthcare professionals (Adebayo & Nwankwo, 2024).
The effect of HIS on reducing patient record errors has been studied extensively in developed countries; however, studies focusing on Nigerian hospitals are still scarce. This research, therefore, seeks to explore the effect of healthcare information systems on reducing record errors in Benue State's hospitals, addressing the specific challenges that these institutions face in adopting and utilizing HIS effectively (Bamidele et al., 2025).
Statement of the problem
In hospitals in Benue State, the management of patient records remains problematic due to a lack of effective systems to prevent errors. These errors can result in incorrect diagnoses, medication mistakes, and delays in treatment, which ultimately affect patient outcomes (Adeniran et al., 2023). Despite the potential for healthcare information systems to address these challenges, many hospitals in Benue State continue to rely on paper-based systems or outdated technologies, leading to inefficiencies and the persistence of record errors. This research aims to investigate the role of healthcare information systems in mitigating these errors and improving healthcare delivery in Benue State.
Objectives of the study
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To examine the role of healthcare information systems in reducing patient record errors in hospitals in Benue State.
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To identify the challenges associated with the implementation and use of healthcare information systems in Benue State's hospitals.
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To propose recommendations for improving the effectiveness of healthcare information systems in reducing record errors in Benue State.
Research questions
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How do healthcare information systems reduce patient record errors in hospitals in Benue State?
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What challenges do hospitals in Benue State face in implementing and utilizing healthcare information systems?
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What strategies can be adopted to enhance the effectiveness of healthcare information systems in reducing patient record errors in Benue State?
Research hypotheses
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Healthcare information systems significantly reduce patient record errors in hospitals in Benue State.
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Lack of infrastructure and training are significant barriers to the effective implementation of healthcare information systems in Benue State's hospitals.
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The adoption of advanced healthcare information systems will lead to a significant reduction in patient record errors in Benue State hospitals.
Scope and limitations of the study
The study will focus on hospitals in Benue State and will examine the role of healthcare information systems in reducing patient record errors. The research is limited to public and private hospitals in the state, and findings may not be applicable to other regions. Additionally, the study will primarily rely on qualitative data from interviews with healthcare professionals, which may limit the scope of the findings.
Definitions of terms
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Healthcare Information Systems (HIS): A system designed to manage and store healthcare data electronically, including patient records and clinical information.
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Patient Record Errors: Mistakes or inaccuracies in a patient's medical records, which can include incorrect diagnoses, medication errors, or miscommunication of critical information.
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Electronic Health Records (EHR): A digital version of a patient's paper chart, which includes a comprehensive record of health-related information and can be accessed by multiple healthcare providers.
