Background and objectives: This study explored the views and perspectives of primary health care providers participating in the DELPHI (Deliver Primary Healthcare Information) project regarding their experiences using electronic medical records (EMRs) in their practices 2 years after adoption. This research was conducted in follow up to a previous qualitative study looking at early EMR implementation experiences.
Methods: This descriptive qualitative study explored the experiences of 19 participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Both individual and team analyses were performed.
Results: Emergent from the data were five interwoven elements of team behavior when using the EMR. Consistent data entry was imperative to successful EMR utilization. The EMR software was utilized differently depending on the role of the team member. Team members continued to seek out a team champion/problem solver to help overcome obstacles. Communication was enhanced by using the common messaging system within the EMR. Finally, success with certain functions such as communication, champion enthusiasm, and recognition of the value of the EMR encouraged others to learn additional features and advanced the adoption process.
Conclusions: These findings illuminate important elements of team behavior that promoted EMR adoption and provide insight for primary health care providers moving through the continuum of initial to advanced EMR adoption.