The Electronic Health Record in Germany: A Qualitative Study to Identify Factors that Increase Acceptance

Aim The potential of the electronic health record (EHR) has been known for a long time. However, it has not yet arrived in everyday care. The reason for this and what recommendations for action can be derived from this is the subject of this study. Method A qualitative-exploratory approach was chosen: the expert interview. The interviews were conducted using guidelines, transcribed and evaluated using qualitative content analysis. Results Data were collected in ten expert interviews. The essential need for action was identified: improvement of user-friendliness, integration into everyday practice with less effort, creation of noticeable added value and promotion of digital competence among all those involved. Conclusion If the mentioned parameters are adjusted correctly, the EHR has the chance to become the "heart" of a digitized health care system.