The Journey of Medical Record Ergonomic Aspects Toward Data Digitalization: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The transition transition of medical records management from conventional system to electronic medical records (EMR) not only impacts recording technology, but also affects staff working conditions from an ergonomics. Research on ergonomics has been conducted separately at each development stage. This study aims to map the development of ergonomic aspects in medical record management from conventional systems to EMR implementation.  The method used in this reseacrh is a scoping review with the PRISMA-ScR approach. Literature searches were conducted through several types of national and international scientific databases with keywords ergonomics, digitization, and electronic medical records (EMR). Articles meeting  the inclusion criteria were analyzed and grouped based on system development stages and ergonomic dimensions examined.  The results showed that in conventional systems, ergonomic issues tend to focus more on physical aspects (35.7%) and environmental aspects (14.3%), such as layout, lighting, ventilation, security systems, and staff work posture. Along with digitalization and EMR implementation, research focus shifted to cognitive ergonomics  (21.4%) and organizational ergonomics (28.6%), convering mental workload, user adaptation to system interface design, and management support in managing change. These findings indicate that digitalization does not eliminate ergonomics issue but rather transforms the challenges faced by staff.  This research leads to the need for  developing an integrated ergonomic framework as a reference for healthcare facilities in implementing EMR.  Further research also needs to be developed through a longitudinal and action research approaches to ensure that the transition process runs optimally while maintaining aspects of staff comfort, safety, and well-being.