The Impact of Electronic Health Records on Healthcare Quality: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have emerged as a transformative technology in modern healthcare delivery, fundamentally altering how patient information is collected, stored, and utilized across clinical settings. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the empirical evidence regarding the impact of EHR implementation on healthcare quality outcomes, encompassing patient safety, clinical effectiveness, care coordination, and operational efficiency. Through a comprehensive analysis of 87 studies published between 2015 and 2024, this research synthesizes quantitative and qualitative findings to provide a nuanced understanding of how digital health information systems influence care delivery. The findings reveal that EHR adoption is associated with significant improvements in medication safety (odds ratio = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.59-0.78), diagnostic accuracy (relative risk = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.15-1.33), and preventive care delivery (standardized mean difference = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.31-0.53). However, the analysis also identifies implementation challenges, including workflow disruptions, clinician burnout, and initial productivity declines that must be addressed to realize the full potential of these systems. This comprehensive review provides evidence-based insights for healthcare administrators, policymakers, and clinical leaders navigating the complex landscape of health information technology adoption and optimization.