The Effect of Computer Skills and Training on the Readiness to Use Electronic Medical Records (EMR) among Health Workers: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

The implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) is essential for improving healthcare quality and efficiency; however, health workers’ readiness to use EMR remains a major challenge. Computer skills and training have been widely identified as key determinants of EMR readiness, yet quantitative evidence integrating their effects is limited. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the effects of computer skills and computer or EMR-specific training on health workers’ readiness to use EMR. A meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Studies published between 2015 and 2025 were identified from PubMed and Google Scholar. Eligible studies reported adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for the association between computer skills or training and EMR readiness among health workers in Ethiopia and Kenya. Data were synthesized using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.3. Pooled aORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a fixed-effect model. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and publication bias was evaluated through funnel plot analysis. A total of 11 cross-sectional studies were included in the meta-analysis. Health workers with good computer skills had significantly higher readiness to use EMR compared with those with poor computer skills (aOR = 2.35; 95% CI = 1.89–2.91; p < 0.001), with low heterogeneity across studies. Similarly, health workers who received computer or EMR-specific training showed higher readiness to use EMR than those without training (aOR = 2.30; 95% CI = 1.99–2.64; p < 0.001), with moderate heterogeneity. Funnel plot assessment indicated no substantial publication bias. Computer skills and training were significantly associated with increased readiness to use EMR among health workers. These findings highlight the importance of integrating digital literacy and structured training programs into health system strengthening efforts to support successful EMR implementation.