Healthcare professionals' perceptions of electronic prescription systems in outpatient services: a qualitative study at UNS hospital.

BACKGROUND

The outpatient prescription service at UNS Hospital has traditionally relied on paper-based prescriptions. The outpatient prescription service at UNS Hospital is transitioning from paper-based to electronic prescription systems (EPSs). While existing literature highlights EPS benefits, gaps remain in understanding healthcare professionals' subjective experiences during implementation. This qualitative study explores doctors' and pharmacists' perceptions regarding the motivations, benefits, challenges, readiness, and system development suggestions for EPS implementation in outpatient services at UNS Hospital.

METHODS

In-depth interviews were conducted with six doctors and four pharmacists between January and April 2024. The study participants were prescription doctors and pharmacists at UNS Hospital. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. Thematic analysis was used to identify the themes that emerged from the interviews.

RESULTS

Five themes emerged: (1) Motivations centered on reducing medication errors and enhancing operational efficiency; (2) Benefits included improved communication, cost control, and streamlined workflows; (3) Readiness revealed pharmacists' enthusiasm versus doctors' cautious adaptation. (4) System suggestions emphasized real-time drug stock integration and advanced search features. (5)Electronic Prescription System Features included Information on adverse drug reaction.

CONCLUSION

While healthcare professionals perceive EPS as beneficial for safety and efficiency, addressing challenges like user training and system interoperability is critical for successful adoption. Implementing participant-driven suggestions, such as real-time inventory alerts, could optimize EPS effectiveness. These insights provide actionable strategies for hospitals transitioning to digital prescribing systems.