Primary Health Care Physicians Perceptions about Centralized Electronic Prescription Service in Qassim Province, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: In the current era, electronic prescriptions are increasing in developed countries including Saudi Arabia, where the resources were adequate to manage the manpower and technical issues. The objective of the study was to find the perceptions of the physicians about the centralized electronic prescriptions at the primary health care centers (PHCCs) and suggestions to improve the existing service. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out among the PHC physicians and distributed questionnaires to 200 physicians through Google Links. Based on the WhatsApp group numbers, circulated a questionnaire to entire Qassim PHCC physicians and 131 physicians responded to our survey. Data were entered and analyzed with SPSS 21.0 version and necessary statistical tests were applied. Results: In the current study, 70.2% (n-92) were males and 40.5% (n-53) were 25–35 years of age. About 91.6% (n-120) of physicians gave an opinion of average and above satisfaction regarding Wasfaty service. Approximately, one-fifth of physicians (20.6%, n-27) gave their opinion as did not face difficulty with Wasfaty service. Approximately, half of the physicians (53.4%, n-70) gave a response as the Wasfaty service did not reduce the waiting time for the patient. There was significant association was observed among physicians fully satisfied with increasing prescription time and age (p < 0.05). One-third, 34.8% (n-55) of physicians gave an opinion on an internet problem, and 26.6% (n-42) physicians mentioned more options of medication at Wasfaty service. Conclusions: Based on the results of the study, PHCC physicians’ satisfaction regarding the Wasfaty service was good. But, need to address certain modifiable issues like internet problems, and more options for medication availability at Wasfaty service. Need similar studies as a follow-up survey are required to substantiate the current study findings and to improve Wasfaty service satisfaction.