AVAILABILITY OF THE TECHNOLOGICAL SUPPORT IN STORAGE OF PATIENT HEALTH INFORMATION AND ASSOCIATED CHALLENGES AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR TEACHING HOSPITAL, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46827/ejphs.v9i2.261Keywords:
technological support, available, patient health information, challenges for professionals, University of CalabarAbstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the availability of technological support in the storage of patient health information and associated challenges among health information professionals in the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Cross River State, Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. Data were collected from 229 participants. A structured questionnaire entitled (PHISPAHIP) was the instrument used for data collection. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and chi-square tests. The results of the analysis showed that 61% of respondents primarily used paper-based methods, 57% reported moderate use of digital storage systems, and 63% agreed that compliance with confidentiality and data protection standards was partially observed. Major challenges included inadequate staffing (76%), heavy workload (72%), limited storage space (70%), and insufficient technical support (53%). While 59% of respondents agreed that available digital tools improved efficiency, gaps in staff competence and training hindered optimal utilization. The study concluded that the storage and management of patient health information in the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital are characterized by a continued reliance on paper-based methods, with partial adoption of electronic and hybrid systems. Recommendations include phased transition to electronic or hybrid systems, enhanced staff training, strengthened technical support, standardized security and backup protocols, and investment in modern health information infrastructure to improve efficiency, accessibility, and data integrity. The study contributes to knowledge by documenting storage practices, compliance gaps, and the influence of technology and staff competence on health information management in a Nigerian tertiary hospital context.References
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