Exploring challenges in records management in a public hospital setting

Background: Record management has been reported to be a problem in health facilities in South Africa. Several studies have assessed the magnitude of the problem and came up with varying strategies to combat this challenge, but the problem persists. Aim: The present study aimed to explore practices and challenges in record managements in the central community health clinic and subsequently develop strategies aimed at improving record management at this facility. Methodology: The present study was conducted in the Community Health Clinic in Gauteng Province, South Africa. An unstructured questionnaire was used for data collection from the data clerks and professional nurses. Saturation of data was reached after the eight participants. NVIVO version 11software was used to analyse transcripts employing Tesch approach. Results and Discussion: The present study found that the participants are aware of the record management policy however they have not seen it and there was no in-house training on record management. Challenges perceived by participants included training in records management, lack of resources such as storage facility, lack of related consumables. Participants recommended the use of electronic records as a probable solution to their challenges. Conclusion: The presents study shows that record management is a problem in health facilities. It further recommends that record management can be improved by training of health workers, embracing records management budget, and introducing both electronic system and patient-held records system.

Grantor dc:publisher

North-West University (South Africa)

Year dc:date.issued

2021

Author dc:creator

• Senne, Glendor Lebogang

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Jordaan, J.A.

• Record
• Record management
• Health
• Challenges
• Strategies

Language dc:language.iso

en

Identifier URI

0000-0002-3581-9126

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.nwu.ac.za:10394/38826