Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems and Patient Care Efficiency in Tertiary Hospitals

Abstract

The adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHR)
systems has become a central component of healthcare
transformation globally, particularly in tertiary hospitals
where complex patient cases require efficient information
management. This study examines the impact of EHR
adoption on patient care efficiency, focusing on
improvements in service delivery, accuracy of medical
records, and reduction in clinical errors. The transition
from paper-based systems to digital platforms enables
healthcare providers to access real-time patient
information, thereby enhancing decision-making and
coordination of care among multidisciplinary teams. The
study adopts a descriptive approach, drawing on existing
empirical evidence to evaluate how EHR systems
influence workflow efficiency, patient waiting time, and
overall quality of care. Findings indicate that EHR
implementation significantly reduces duplication of
medical tests, improves documentation accuracy, and
enhances communication among healthcare
professionals. However, challenges such as high
implementation costs, resistance to change among staff,
and technical issues remain barriers to optimal
utilisation. Furthermore, the study highlights that the
success of EHR systems is largely dependent on adequate
training, infrastructure, and policy support. In tertiary
hospitals, where patient volume and complexity are high,
effective use of EHR systems contributes to improved
patient outcomes and operational efficiency. The study
concludes that while EHR systems offer substantial
benefits, sustained investment in capacity building and
system maintenance is necessary to maximise their
impact