Seniors' views on the use of electronic health records

• Main Authors: Diane Morin, Andre Tourigny, Daniel Pelletier, Line Robichaud, Luc Mathieu, Aline V_zina, Lucie Bonin, Martin Buteau
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT 2005-06-01
• Series: Journal of Innovation in Health Informatics
• Subjects: electronic health record; integrated care; seniors
• Online Access: http://hijournal.bcs.org/index.php/jhi/article/view/589

In the Mauricie and Centre-du-Qu_bec region of the province of Quebec, Canada, an integrated services network has been implemented for frail seniors. It combines three of the best practices in the field of integrated services, namely: single-entry point, case management and personalised care plan. A shared interdisciplinary electronic health record (EHR) system was set up in 1998. A consensus on the relevance of using EHRs is growing in Quebec, in Canada and around the world. However, technology has outpaced interest in the notions of confidentiality, informed consent and the impact perceived by the clientele. This study specifically examines how frail seniors perceive these issues related to an EHR. The conceptual framework is inspired by the DeLone and McLean model whose main attributes are: system quality, information quality, utilisation modes and the impact on organisations and individuals. This last attribute is the focus of this study, which is a descriptive with quantitative and qualitative component. Thirty seniors were surveyed. Positive information they provided falls under three headings: (i) being better informed; (ii) trust and consideration for professionals; and (iii) appreciation of innovation. The opinions of the seniors are generally favourable regarding the use of computers and the EHR in their presence. Improvements in EHR systems for seniors can be encouraged.