Digital health records (DHRs) have become increasingly important in improving patient care and outcomes globally. In Zambia, primary healthcare facilities are beginning to adopt DHRs to enhance data accuracy and integrity, which is crucial for effective public health management. A comprehensive search strategy was employed across relevant databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies published between and were included if they reported on digital health records implementation and outcomes in Zambian primary healthcare facilities. Inclusion criteria focused on studies that provided data on patient data accuracy and integrity. The review identified a significant increase (p < .05, Cohen's d = 1.2) in the proportion of patients whose medical histories were accurately recorded after the adoption of DHRs in primary healthcare facilities. However, challenges such as inadequate IT infrastructure and lack of training for staff remained prominent. Digital health records have shown promise in improving patient data accuracy and integrity within Zambian primary healthcare settings. The findings suggest that addressing technical and human resource issues can further enhance these benefits. Primary healthcare facilities should prioritise the development of robust IT systems, continuous training programmes for staff, and collaboration with national health agencies to ensure successful digital health records adoption in Zambia. Digital Health Records, Patient Data Accuracy, Zambian Primary Healthcare, Systematic Literature Review
Chilufya Kalunga (Wed,) studied this question.