From literacy to practice: enhancing EMR use through digital confidence and organizational support in healthcare staff

Purpose The present study examines the impact of digital health literacy on effective use of electronic medical records (EMRs) among health workers by considering digital confidence as mediator and organizational support as moderator. While digital literacy has been widely studied, the role of digital confidence in the actual usage of EMR is relatively unexplored, especially in the Indian settings. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was carried out through a structured, self-administered questionnaire among 406 health professionals working in private hospitals. Further, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) has been used to test the relationship among variables. Findings The present result depicts that digital health literacy has a significant impact on effective use of EMRs and digital confidence among health workers. Additionally, digital confidence strengthens the effects of literacy on the system usage. Finally, supportive environment increases the confidence of the staff, as a result organizational support positively moderates the relationship between digital confidence and EMR usage. Practical implications Despite enhancing digital skills among healthcare workers, organization need to promote digital confidence by organizing various training programs and ongoing support. Policies will need to take account of staff readiness and confidence, not just technological availability, to move toward better EMR adoption. Originality/value This study makes a distinctive contribution by recognizing digital confidence as the missing link between literacy and the actual use of EMRs. In doing so, it addresses a key research gap by providing tangible support for digital health improvements in developing countries such as India.