Healthcare workers' readiness and training needs in server and network management for electronic medical record systems

Background: Sri Lanka's health system is undergoing digital transformation, with the advent of electronic medical records (EMR). Effective server and network management is vital for sustaining EMR systems. A workshop on server and network management was tailor made to meet the training needs of participants with varying skills and readiness levels.  
Objective: This study aimed to assess readiness and attitudes towards handling the IT infrastructure that supports EMR systems
Methods: A web-based questionnaire including multiple-choice questions, Likert scales and open-ended responses was used for this operational research activity on server and network management within the capacity building programme of the health information unit in collaboration with ICTA for hospital staff working as focal points for EMR implementation. Data was collected anonymously and analysed using descriptive statistics to identify trends.
Results: Thirty-one healthcare workers from seven districts participated, including healthcare assistants (N=31,32.3%), other staff (22.6%), Development Officers (19.4%), and ICT officers (12.9%). While 96.8% had computer access and internet at work, only 48.4% felt comfortable using computers. In terms of EMR usage, 61.3% had prior experience. Key concerns were technical issues (61.3%) and lack of training (64.5%). Knowledge of server and network management was rated as moderate by 48.4% and 45.2%, respectively. Most (74.2%) requested onsite hands-on training, and 54.8% sought online resources. Overall, 61.3% rated the workshop as highly valuable.
Conclusions: Participants showed willingness to adopt new systems and identified their training needs in technical support for server and network management, highlighting the importance of targeted training to enhance IT system management and support EMR implementation to sustain digital health initiatives.