Barriers and Facilitators of Implementing Electronic Data Summaries in HIV/AIDS Care.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe case managers' perceptions of the barriers and facilitators to implementing two different electronic data summaries (EDS), a USB-based and Web-based Continuity of Care Document (CCD) for patients living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) in New York City. The primary aim of this descriptive qualitative study was to understand case managers' perceptions of the two systems. Focus group methodology was used to gather perceptions from 48 participants. Major themes by factor included: barriers (technical difficulties, quality of data, and confidentiality breaches), and facilitators (training/ user support, work efficiency, and improved coordination of care). EDSs may be particularly useful in improving coordination of services and information sharing for HIV case managers. Careful attention must be paid to barriers and facilitators for use of these EDSs so that they can best meet the healthcare and social service needs of PLWH.