Discover Public Health (Mar 2025)

Influence of EHR system type and physician demographics on satisfaction levels in health information technology

  • Saanie Sulley,
  • Memory Ndanga

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12982-025-00507-8
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 22, no. 1
pp. 1 – 9

Abstract

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Abstract Background Electronic health records (EHR) systems are essential for improving healthcare delivery, but physician satisfaction with these systems varies widely. Identifying the factors influencing satisfaction is crucial for optimizing EHR design and use. Objective This study explores the impact of EHR system type, physician age, and system features, including CPOE usage, e-prescribing, customizability, and interoperability, on physician satisfaction with EHR systems. Methods Data from the 2018–2021 National Electronic Health Records (NEHR) survey were analyzed, comprising responses from 3409 physicians. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multivariate regression were employed to assess the impact of EHR system type, age group, and system features on physician satisfaction. Interaction analysis explored how satisfaction varied by age group and system type. Results The analysis revealed that EHR system type was the strongest predictor of physician satisfaction, with systems such as Epic and Cerner showing higher satisfaction across all age groups (β = 0.269, p < 0.001). Physician age was also a significant predictor, with those aged 50 and over reporting lower satisfaction (β = − 0.325, p < 0.001). For physicians under 50, CPOE usage emerged as a significant predictor of satisfaction (β = 0.063, 95% CI [0.007, 0.118]) compared to physicians 50 and over. E-prescription usage significantly increased satisfaction (β = 0.057, 95% CI [0.017, 0.098]) among physicians 50 and over compared to physicians under 50. Conclusions The level of physician satisfaction significantly differs based on the EHR system type and the physician's age. Physician satisfaction with CPOE and e-prescription varies by age group, revealing the nuanced nature of EHR features on satisfaction. EHR developers and healthcare organizations should prioritize system usability and customized training to improve physicians' satisfaction. Catering to the distinct requirements of young and elderly doctors can boost overall satisfaction and efficiency in healthcare delivery.

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