Meaningful Use of the Indian Health Service Electronic Health Record

Health Serv Res. 2017 Aug;52(4):1349-1363. doi: 10.1111/1475-6773.12531. Epub 2016 Jul 26.

Abstract

Objective: To understand the use of electronic health record (EHR) functionalities by physicians practicing in an underserved setting.

Data source/study setting: A total of 333 Indian Health Service physicians (55 percent response rate) in August 2012.

Study design: Cross-sectional.

Data collection: The survey assessed routine use of EHR functionalities, perceived usefulness, and barriers to adoption.

Principal findings: Physicians routinely used a median 7 of 10 EHR functionalities targeted by the Meaningful Use program, but only 5 percent used all 10. Most (63 percent) felt the EHR improved quality of care. Many (76 percent) reported increased documentation time and poorer quality patient-physician interactions (45 percent). Primary care specialty and time using the EHR were positively associated with use of EHR functionalities, while perceived productivity loss was negatively associated.

Conclusions: Significant opportunities exist to increase use of EHR functionalities and preserve physician-patient interactions and productivity in a resource-limited environment.

Keywords: Electronic health record; Indian Health Service; Meaningful Use; underserved.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diffusion of Innovation
  • Electronic Health Records*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meaningful Use*
  • Middle Aged
  • United States
  • United States Indian Health Service*