This chapter outlines the methodology employed in the study to explore
the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) in a Nigerian secondary healthcare facility. The methodology encompasses research design, population and sample size, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, ethical considerations, research validity, and reliability.
3.1 Research Design:
The study adopts a qualitative research design to provide an in-depth
understanding of the EHR implementation process in the selected healthcare facility. Qualitative methods allow for the exploration of complex phenomena, such as organizational change and stakeholder perceptions, within their natural context.
3.2 Population and Sample Size:
The population of interest includes healthcare professionals,
administrators, and other stakeholders involved in the EHR implementation process in the selected secondary healthcare facility.
The sample selected from the target population was 20 who viewed as Respondent for the purpose of collecting data for the research.
A purposive sampling technique will be utilized to select participants
who possess relevant knowledge and experience related to EHR implementation.
3.3 Data Collection Methods:
Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group
discussions, and document analysis. Semi-structured interviews will allow for in-depth exploration of participants' perspectives, experiences, and challenges related to EHR implementation. Focus group discussions will facilitate group interactions and generate collective insights into key implementation issues. Document analysis will involve the review of relevant documents, such as EHR implementation plans, policy documents, and training materials, to provide additional context and corroborate findings from interviews and focus groups.
3.4 Data Analysis Techniques:
Thematic analysis will be employed to analyze qualitative data collected
from interviews, focus groups, and document analysis. This approach involves identifying patterns, themes, and categories within the data to generate insights and draw conclusions. Data analysis will be iterative and involve constant comparison of emerging themes to ensure data saturation and theoretical saturation.
3.5 Ethical Considerations:
Ethical principles, including informed consent, confidentiality, and
voluntary participation, will be upheld throughout the research process. Participants will be provided with information about the study's purpose, procedures, and potential risks and benefits before obtaining their consent to participate. Measures will be taken to ensure the anonymity and confidentiality of participants' responses during data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
3.6 Research Validity and Reliability:
To enhance the validity and reliability of the study findings, various
strategies will be employed. Triangulation of data sources and methods will be used to corroborate findings and enhance the credibility of the study. Member checking will involve presenting preliminary findings to participants for validation and feedback.
Additionally, reflexivity will be maintained by documenting the
researchers' biases, assumptions, and preconceptions throughout the research process.By employing a rigorous qualitative research methodology, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the implementation of Electronic Health Records in a Nigerian secondary healthcare facility. The chosen methods will enable the exploration of key implementation issues, challenges, and opportunities, thereby contributing valuable insights to the project topic and informing future EHR implementation efforts in similar contexts.