Electronic Medical Records: Evolution, Usability, Challenges, and Trends in Health Care Settings

Elsangidy, Mervat Mahmoud; Farag, Nesrine Saad; Rawaf, Salman; Ibrahim, Nesreen F

doi:10.21608/muj.2025.355128.1202

Electronic Medical Records: Evolution, Usability, Challenges, and Trends in Health Care Settings

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

¹ Community Medicine and Public Health Department Faculty of Medicine, Port-Said University, Egypt

² Primary Care and Public Health Department, School of Public Health at Imperial College London

³ Department of Public Health, Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, faculty of medicine port Said university Port Said Egypt

10.21608/muj.2025.355128.1202

Abstract

The transition from traditional paper-based medical records to Electronic Health Records (EHRs) has significantly transformed healthcare documentation, enhancing data accessibility, patient care efficiency, and clinical decision-making. This review explores the evolution of EHR systems, emphasizing their usability, associated challenges, and emerging trends in healthcare settings. The widespread adoption of EHRs has streamlined medical workflows, reduced errors, and improved care coordination. However, challenges such as interoperability issues, data security concerns, and resistance from healthcare providers continue to impact their effectiveness. Financial constraints and technical difficulties further complicate implementation, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Recent advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI) integration, cloud-based solutions, and mobile EHR platforms, offer promising improvements in usability and functionality. Additionally, interoperability frameworks, such as Health Level Seven (HL7) and Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR), play a crucial role in optimizing data exchange across healthcare systems. The review also highlights Egypt’s efforts in digitizing its healthcare infrastructure, with Port Said serving as a pioneering model for nationwide EHR implementation under the Universal Health Insurance System.

Despite persistent challenges, the future of EHRs appears promising, driven by technological innovations and policy advancements aimed at enhancing usability, security, and patient-centered care. Addressing existing barriers through improved system design, provider training, and regulatory measures will be essential in maximizing the benefits of EHRs and ensuring their long-term success in modern healthcare environments.

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