JMIR Publications

Background:

Electronic medical records (EMRs) are increasingly adopted globally to improve health care delivery, yet challenges remain in their acceptance, defined here as favorable attitudes toward their use among health professionals. Understanding factors influencing acceptance is critical for successful implementation.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify predictors (or factors) associated with favorable attitudes toward EMRs among health professionals in 3 Ethiopian hospitals.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2025 in 3 Ethiopian hospitals implementing EMRs. A systematic random sampling method was used to initially select 397 health professionals, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify predictors of favorable attitudes toward EMRs.

Results:

Of the final 382 professionals, 198 (51.8%, 95% CI 0.43-0.53) showed favorable attitudes. Predictors of positive attitude included computer literacy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.66, 95% CI 1.16-6.09; =.02), EMR training (AOR 2.87, 95% CI 1.80-4.56; <.001), and age of 29 years or younger (AOR 3.05, 95% CI 1.58-5.9; =.001)

Conclusions:

Improving computer literacy, providing refresher training, and strengthening management support are key strategies for enhancing health professionals’ attitudes toward EMRs. Future research should explore qualitative insights into barriers and facilitators of EMR adoption.