Egyptian patients' perceptions of using personal health records (PHRs): an exploratory study

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the perception of Egyptian patients about the use of personal health records (PHRs). Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research methodology was adopted in the form of a survey. Findings Over one-third of the selected sample was found to use PHRs. The study found that the use of PHRs by Egyptian patients was moderate. All PHRs users confirmed that they were very interested in the doctors' notes and the laboratory reports recorded in their records. A very large number of PHR users confirmed that their use of these records was at least fairly easy for them and all of them confirmed that the use of these records was at least fairly useful. Above two-third of PHR users answered at least somewhat yes that their PHRs were accurate and over half of them answered at least somewhat yes that their PHRs were complete. The highest percentage of PHR users agreed that the use of PHRs would enhance their trust in their doctors and nurses. Close to half of PHR users expressed some concern about sharing their records. Violation of privacy in the use of these medical records, followed by the complexity of using them, as well as lack of awareness about them, was also significant to PHR users. Originality/value Understanding Egyptian patients perceptions of using PHRs may significantly aid in eliminating barriers and accelerating the adoption and use of these records to improve patient care.