Electronic Patient Records in Developing Countries: Achievements and Challenges

Electronic patient records (EPRs) have the potential to transform healthcare delivery in developing countries, improving access to information, enhancing coordination of care, and promoting patient safety. However, the implementation of EPRs in these settings faces unique challenges and requires careful planning and consideration. This chapter explores the rationality, importance, achievements, facilitators, barriers, challenges, and recommendations for EPR implementation in developing countries. Key findings include the improved data accessibility, efficiency gains, and enhanced healthcare infrastructure achieved through EPRs. The challenges of limited financial resources, infrastructure limitations, and data privacy concerns are identified. Recommendations focus on infrastructure development, policy frameworks, capacity building, stakeholder engagement, interoperability, and sustainability planning. By addressing these recommendations, developing countries can leverage EPRs to improve healthcare delivery, patient outcomes, and public health management.