Physicians’ perceptions of electronic prescribing with electronic medical records in Kuwaiti primary healthcare centres

Abstract EN

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate physicians’ perceptions of electronic prescribing in Kuwaiti primary healthcare centres.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2017 among 368 physicians from 25 primary healthcare centres in Kuwait.

Data were collected from the participants using a selfreported questionnaire, including sociodemographic characteristics, previous experience with computers and awareness, knowledge and use of e-prescribing systems and their functional features.

In addition, perceptions of the benefits and levels of satisfaction associated with e-prescribing were explored.

Results: A total of 306 physicians completed the survey (response rate: 83%).

The majority had positive perceptions regarding the use of e-prescribing, particularly in terms of time-savings (86%), healthcare quality (84%), productivity (80%) and clinical workflow and efficiency (83%).

However, many respondents indicated that e-prescribing systems required additional improvements in terms of functionality.

Conclusion: Most physicians in primary healthcare centres in Kuwait recognised the importance of e-prescribing to improve the quality of patient care, streamline workflow, increase productivity and reduce medical errors.

However, there is a need to improve the design and infrastructure of e-prescribing systems, which may aid in the adoption of such systems in Kuwait