Electronic Medical Record: Integration and Coordination in the Romanian Health System

By

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A number of studies have been performed to investigate benefits of using electronic health records. One of these benefits is cost. While it is known that there will be an initial outlay of capital on the front end of implementing electronic health records, many studies have projected a large return on investment over time, not only for hospitals but for the overall national health care delivery system. This research used a mixed-method approach. This is a technique in which the qualitative and quantitative techniques are used collectively for data collection purpose. In this survey a total of 100 physicians were included and the responses were given by 60 physicians. The participants in the survey are randomly selected as their distribution to healthcare organisation is proved. In the conclusion of this research, it can be said that the current situation of health care industry in Romania is not ideal and it contains a lot of weakness. On the other hand, due to the current conditions of Romania promising and premium quality health care facilities and services are very difficult to provide but not impossible. The decision makers associated with the health care industry of Romania, doctors and other health professionals is putting in an effort for ensuring the best possible services to the citizens of Romania. In the long term, these Electronic Medical Records can be transformed into the clinical decision support systems. This will in turn enhance the quality, meet the standards, guide the medical staff and clear the clinical pathways for the episode of care.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would first like to express my gratitude for my research coordinator, colleagues, and peers and family whose immense and constant support has been a source of continuous guidance and inspiration.

DECLARATION

I [type your full first names & surname here], declare that the following dissertation/thesis and its entire content has been an individual, unaided effort and has not been submitted or published before. Furthermore, it reflects my opinion and take on the topic and is does not represent the opinion of the University.

Signature:

Dated:

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

CNAS - Casa Nationala de Asigurari de Sanatate (National Health Insurance House)

ICDL - International Computer Driving License

ICT - Information and Communication Technology

SIUI - Sistem Informatic Unic Integrat stands (Single Integrated Information System)

EMR - Electronic Medical Records

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTiii

DECLARATIONiv

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONSv

CHAPTER 01: INTRODUCTION1

History of Romania2

Inception as a Nation2

Demographics3

Background of study4

Barriers to Adopting Electronic Health Records6

Research Questions7

Outlined Elements7

CHAPTER 02: LITERATURE REVIEW9

Theoretical Perspective9

Historical Literature14

Patient and Provider Attitudes18

Summary of Literature Review23

CHAPTER 03: RESEARCH DESIGN25

Mixed Research25

Classification of Research Methods25

Multi-Method Studies26

Mixed Method Studies26

Research Participants26

CHAPTER 04: FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION28

Doctors Survey28

Electronic Health System in Romania31

EU and WHO Requirements35

World Health Organization36

Romanian Health Care Services - Quality Standards (SWOT)37

Concept of Nursing in Romania43

Current and Technological Advances47

Barriers To Implementation51

CHAPTER 05: SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION57

Benefits of the Electronic Medical Records57

Key Aspects of Strategic Operational Perspective on ICT58

Creating the Conditions for the use of ICT Solutions in Health Care Industry60

Intra-Sectoral Cooperation is Essential60

Management, Coordination and Cooperation at National Level61

National E-Health Strategy requires Cooperation/Coordination ...