Digital Preservation and Management of Medical Records

Abstract

This chapter utilized literature review to investigate the management and preservation of records in medical records libraries using modern technologies, with the view to highlight how these technologies can revolutionize these libraries' practices and services. These technologies could also enable medical record libraries to preserve and manage medical records more accurately and ensure their security and long-term access to preserved records. The study reveals that although medical records libraries acknowledge the importance of emerging new digital technologies in managing and preserving their digital records, these technologies are being slowly adopted due to lack of knowledge, skills and trained personnel in digital record management, lack of technological infrastructure and technical support. The study recommends that medical records libraries consider exploring collaborating with other sectors or libraries such as academic libraries, archives etc. to implement digital technologies for the purpose of managing and preserving their digital records.