Title: An empirical study of the intentions of physicians in adopting electronic medical records in rural areas of Taiwan

Authors: Wei-Min Huang

Addresses: Department of Information Management, Graduate Institute of Healthcare Information Management, National Chung Cheng University, 168, Sec 1, University Road, Ming-Hsiung, Chia-Yi, 62102, Taiwan

Abstract: Currently in healthcare organisations paper-based patient record management faces many challenges. Most hospitals are promoting the full implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs). Medical environments change frequently, which makes full acceptance of electronic medical records by physicians an important issue. EMRs solve many of the problems associated with paper records. Despite their advantages, however, EMR systems have not been universally adopted by doctors, and their pattern of use is uncertain. This study combines theory on reasoned action with a technology acceptance model to determine which factors influence physician adaptation of EMR within rural areas of Taiwan. In particular, this study examines the role of external factors, such as professional autonomy, training, and computer self-efficacy. It finds that EMR use is not significantly influenced by feelings towards professional autonomy, but is positively related to levels of training and computer self-efficacy.

Keywords: EMR; electronic medical records; professional autonomy; training; computer self-efficacy; reasoned action; technology acceptance model; TAM; physicians; doctors; rural areas; Taiwan; patient record management; healthcare management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSS.2013.057243

International Journal of Services and Standards, 2013 Vol.8 No.3, pp.264 - 277

Received: 04 May 2013
Accepted: 06 May 2013
Published online: 20 Sep 2014 *

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