Perceived benefits of implementing and using hospital information systems and electronic medical records

Hospital information systems (HIS) and electronic medical records (EMR) are currently considered a major part of the healthcare system, on which all the processes of care delivery depend. They have the potential to provide substantial benefits to healthcare professionals, patients and healthcare organizations. The study used quantitative survey methods through a questionnaire to collect data and information directly from different categories of healthcare professionals of four Saudi hospitals. Valid responses were 153 and ten perceived benefits were validated and ranked, these are; 1) Improved information access, 2) Increased healthcare professionals productivity, 3) Improved efficiency and accuracy of coding and billing, 4) Improved quality of healthcare, 5) Improved clinical management (diagnosis and treatment), 6) Reduced expenses associated with paper medical records, 7) Reduced medical errors, 8) Improved patient safety, 9) Improved patient outcomes and 10) Improved patient satisfaction. There is still limited data regarding the direct economic benefits of HIS & EMR.