Usability challenges and barriers in EHR training of primary care resident physicians

Abstract

Current EHRs require a large investment of resources for a user to reach a certain level of proficiency, which is a significant obstacle for new physicians who are not sufficiently trained by their medical schools. Beginning residents in primary care cope with a steep learning curve on EHR use due to EHRs with poor usability, which may lead to medical errors, and decreased quality of patient care. Identifying and addressing early barriers in the learning environment of residents while using an EHR can help improve overall capacity of the new physicians, and save costs for the organization. The goal of this study is to assess current usability challenges and barriers in EHR education and training program at the University of Missouri Health Care (UMHC). © 2014 Springer International Publishing Switzerland.