Electronic Health Record Sharing System in Hong Kong : Facilitating and Impeding Factors Influencing Citizens' Adoption

Abstract: This study is a qualitative research on the faciliating and impeding factors that influence Hong Kong citizen's adoption of Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHRSS), the principal electronic health record (EHR) system in Hong Kong.  A majority of the previous studies of EHR among information systems (IS) literature either focused within the institutional or technological perspectives, or on the perspectives of healthcare institutions or healthcare professionals. Little research has been done from citizens' perspective on factors of their adoption of EHR. There is also little research specific to Hong Kong's circumstances. This research aims to provide an enhanced understanding on the factors that influence citizens' EHR adoption through looking into eHRSS adoption in Hong Kong. It aims to provide contributions to bridge the knowledge gaps by providing a better understanding on adoption factors from citizens' perspective, and investigate into whether there are any unique factors applicable to Hong Kong. In this study, semi-structured interviews had been performed on participants covering various age groups to collect their views and opinions concering their adoption of eHRSS. With reference to theoretical constructs on user acceptance and adoption, this study identifies four facilitating factors for citizens' adoption of eHRSS, namely (i) knowledge, (ii) trust, (iii) perceived potential health benefits and (iv) flexibility and "stickiness" of continual use. Four impeding factors for citizens' non-adoption were also identified, namely (i) difficulty in registration, low level/lack of trust in EHR implementation, (iii) negativity on acceptance of new technology and (iv) perceived difficulty in usage.  In the concluding remarks, way forward for future research has been outlined. Practical recommendations have also been formulated for reference by relevant authorities in administering eHRSS in Hong Kong.