Literature Review on Usability Testing on Academic Electronic Medical Coursework

Literature Review on Usability Testing on Academic Electronic Medical Record Systems - Coursework Example This can be disastrous for patients to the extent of causing avoidable deaths. Users of electronic medical systems are practitioners in the medical field and users of academic medical record systems are those who are being prepared through learning to become qualified and full users of electronic medical records systems. As a result, earlier application usability testing on academic medical records stands to eliminate or minimize errors associated with usability of electronic medical record systems. Implementing usability testing on academic medical records systems creates an environment whereby the health care services practitioners understand electronic medical systems earlier and are adequately prepared for the challenge (s) before them. Academic electronic medical records systems do not have much coverage as relate to usability testing but there is an abundance of literature on usability of electronic medical records systems. An academic application of electronic medical records system is very important in enhancing the knowledge and skills of the medical student for the actual task ahead. Amidst all of the debate revolving around product functions, features, and which product is appropriate for which practice setting, one very important aspect that require to be examined is usability. Usability of a product depends on the combination of its functionality, features, visual appeal as well as the usefulness (Emanuel, et al., 2008). A product must be oriented to the context it applies, and it must take into account the characteristics of its users. Generally, electronic medical records are used for handling medical information vital for patient care and enhance the efficiency as well as accessibility of that information. The same purpose is maintained in academic electronic medical records systems only that it will incorporate those training to become actual users in the future. The importance of testing for usability of academic medical records (EMR) system S tudies on the importance of testing usability of an EMR system, involves examining the role of usability testing as concerns evaluation of an EMR system, identification issues with usability by both beginners and more experienced system users, and effect on efficiency and satisfaction of its users (Corrao, Robinson, Swiernik, & Naeim, 2010). Academic practitioner literatures are confronted with both failed and successful implementations of EMR system. Setting up of EMR systems is always accompanied by technical, economic, organizational and cultural challenges. These studies conclude that apart from reviewing content and features of an EMR system, usability testing has the potential of improving chances of an EMR design being integrated with current workflow and process of business in a clear, transparent and efficient manner. In these studies 90% and above of issues and recommendations for rectification identified by beginners have been found to be credible. However, an interesting finding is that a majority of the users experienced in using previously implemented systems that have not been subject to amplified usability testing, had a higher level of dissatisfaction with efficiency as well as overall functionality but higher general satisfaction than expected. This underscores the importance of testing usability in academic EMR systems. Literature on academic EMR sys