Electronic patient records (EPR) and the broader sharing of health data are recognized as pivotal to the advancement of healthcare systems. In Switzerland, the federal law on electronic patient dossiers (EPDG) went into force in 2017, enabling the nation-wide implementation and use of a Swiss electronic patient record system. However, despite consensus on the importance of the EPDG, its widespread adoption remained very limited. This research project seeks to understand the underlying factors contributing to this low adoption rate.
By analyzing the perspectives of various stakeholders (including healthcare providers, patients, policymakers, and technology experts) as well as analyzing the access, encryption, and communication technology employed, this project aims to answer critical questions that will guide efforts to facilitate the implementation of citizen-centered electronic health record (EPR) initiatives. The project delves into the major opportunities and challenges associated with the adoption of EPR systems, with a specific focus on citizen-centric approaches. Moreover, it seeks to identify strategies and solutions to overcome the existing barriers in the electronic health record (EPR) implementation process.
This research project aspires to provide valuable insights that can inform policies, practices, and innovations to promote the widespread adoption of electronic patient records, ultimately improving healthcare efficiency, accessibility, and patient outcomes.