Electronic health information source use and its associated factors among health professionals working at specialized teaching hospitals in Amhara regional state, Ethiopia 2020.

Abstract

Abstract Background: With the rapid advancement and growth of computer and networking technologies there is a significant growth in the availability and use of various types of electronic health information sources. In developing countries health professionals continue to lack access to basic and practical information to enable them to provide safe and effective care. The availability of health information provides confidence for health professionals in clinical decision making, improves practical skills and attitudes to care. Objective: the main purpose of the study was to assess the level of electronic health information source use and identify its associated factors among health professionals working at specialized teaching hospitals in Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. Method: an institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among health professionals working at specialized teaching hospitals in Amhara regional state from February 23- May 10, 2020. Data was collected by using self-administered questioner as a data collection instrument. Data was entered by using EPI-info 7 and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were applied to identify factors associated with electronic health information source use. Result: a total of 383 Conclusion: nearly three quarter of health professionals use EHIS. Factors significantly associated with EHIS use were: eHealth literacy, computer access, computer literacy, information searching skill and internet access. Keywords: electronic health information sources, health professionals, health care practitioners, utilization of electronic health information sources, factors affecting electronic health information source use.