Does Electronic Health Record Implementation Enhance Hospital Efficiency and Patient Outcomes? A Comprehensive Systematic Review

The extensive implementation of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems marks a significant change in how healthcare is delivered, offering the potential for increased efficiency, better communication between healthcare providers, and improved patient care. Nevertheless, there remains a need for a more comprehensive understanding of these systems and their implications on hospital efficiency and patient outcomes. This systematic review critically examines the contribution of EHR systems implementation in improving hospital efficiency and patient outcomes. We searched three electronic medical databases (namely, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science core collections) to find potentially relevant studies. Specific search keywords were used to ensure comprehension and relevancy. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and the results of the selected studies were presented. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA-2020). Drawing on a diverse range of studies spanning 29 years, and various geographical locations, this review synthesizes findings from 26 selected studies. The review employs a narrative synthesis approach, addressing the multifaceted implications of EHR implementation across different healthcare contexts. This review provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of digital health records in healthcare settings, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of EHR systems. The review reveals a complex picture of EHR systems implementations in improving hospital efficiency and patient outcomes. Notable improvements include enhanced clinical workflow, collaboration, quality of care, and patient safety. However, significant technical challenges persist, and the direct impact on patient outcomes remains unclear, emphasizing the need for further research.