UNDERSTANDING CLINICAL WORKFLOW TRANSFORMATION AFTER EHR IMPLEMENTATION
(1) University of Ghana, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology
(*) Corresponding Author
Abstract
Abstract
Background: The digitization of health records through Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems has become a global priority for enhancing clinical efficiency, improving data accuracy, and facilitating care coordination. In Ghana, the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) was introduced to address inefficiencies associated with paper-based workflows. Juaben Municipal Hospital, one of the facilities onboarded, offers a compelling case for evaluating the system’s impact on clinical workflow.
Objective: This study explored healthcare professionals’ experiences with LHIMS implementation at Juaben Municipal Hospital, focusing on its perceived impact on workflow, documentation, communication, and patient care. It also aimed to identify challenges and opportunities associated with the system and compare pre- and post-EHR workflows.
Method: A qualitative design was employed using in-depth interviews with ten healthcare professionals across clinical units, including physicians, nurses, laboratory technicians, and pharmacists. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify patterns related to workflow changes, documentation practices, communication, training, and system usability.
Results: LHIMS significantly improved documentation accuracy, reduced time spent on routine tasks, and enhanced interdepartmental communication through real-time messaging and electronic referrals. However, challenges such as unstable power supply, poor internet connectivity, and limited training constrain system effectiveness. Staff also reported reduced patient interaction due to the urgency of digital documentation. Despite these limitations, LHIMS was widely perceived as a successful intervention that streamlined clinical operations and improved data management.
Conclusion: The implementation of LHIMS at Juaben Municipal Hospital has modernized clinical workflows by automating manual processes, enhancing documentation quality, and improving communication across departments. Despite its benefits, persistent infrastructure gaps and limited user training hindered full system utilization. To optimize outcomes, future efforts should prioritize reliable infrastructure, continuous training, and user-centered system design. Crucially, digital efficiency must be balanced with patient-centered care to maintain quality clinical interactions.
Keywords
References
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