Impact of the Lightwave Health Information Management Software on the Dimensions of Quality of Healthcare Data

Abstract

Objectives The use of technology in healthcare to manage patient records, guide diagnosis, and make referrals is termed electronic healthcare. An electronic health record system called Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) was implemented in 2018 at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH). This study evaluated the impact of LHIMS on the quality of healthcare data at CCTH, focusing on the extent to which its use has enhanced the main dimensions of data quality. Methods Structured questionnaires were administered to doctors at CCTH to enquire about their opinions about the present state of LHIMS as measured against the parameters of interest in this study, mainly the dimensions of quality healthcare data and the specific issues plaguing the system as reported by respondents. Results Most doctors found LHIMS convenient to use, mainly because it made access to patient records easier and had to some extent improved the dimensions of quality healthcare data, except for comprehensiveness, at CCTH. Major challenges that impeded the smooth running of the system were erratic power supply, inadequate logistics and technological drive, and poor internet connectivity. Conclusions LHIMS must be upgraded to include more decision support systems and additional add-ons such as patients’ radiological reports, and laboratory results must be readily available on LHIMS to make patient health data more comprehensive.

Keywords

• electronic health records
• medical records
• quality of health care
• public health
• health care evaluation mechanisms