JICA-MCH project successfully conducted a two-day training (14-15 July, 2023) on “Analysis and Use of EMR Data” for Strengthening of District level Supervisors (District Coordinators, Field Program Officers, Social Organizers, and Computer Operators). The training was held in Multan and trained a total of 28 participants from the districts of Vehari, Khanewal, and Multan. By educating healthcare providers and district supervisors on the significance of medical data, from local health facilities to the provincial level, we are helping them grasp the importance of the EMR system and its potential benefits.

It's evident that the Electronic Medical Record System (EMR) implemented by the Primary and Secondary Health Care Department (P & SHD) in Punjab has the potential to significantly improve healthcare management and data analysis. The system's comprehensive coverage of patient information and integration across different levels of the healthcare system is commendable. With the ability to collect and utilize data from grassroots to provincial levels, the EMR system can greatly enhance decision-making, research, and policy formulation.

However, one of the key challenges faced in the effective use of the EMR system is the digital literacy of healthcare providers. Insufficient understanding of the app's functionalities and features can lead to incomplete data entry and hinder the system's overall utility. Additionally, resistance to transitioning from traditional register-based systems to a paperless environment can also be a barrier.

Refresher trainings like this are crucial in bridging the gap and achieving the goals of the EMR system. Such training sessions not only enhance the digital literacy of healthcare staff but also instill a deeper understanding of how the data collected through the EMR system can be utilized to improve data quality and overall healthcare service delivery.

Continued efforts in promoting such training initiatives and providing ongoing support to healthcare providers can lead to a smoother and more successful integration of the EMR system into daily healthcare practices. As data quality improves, the system's potential for research, policy formulation, and evidence-based decision-making will be further amplified, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and effective healthcare system in Punjab.

Author: Midhet Nasim

MIS-EMR Coordinator/ Data Analyst, JICA-MCH Project, Punjab