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Catherine Wanjiku Ndekei

HD132-C003-0221/15

Chapter Three

Methodology

METHODOLOGY

The aim of this study is to enhance the current understanding of patient and public views about the development of universal Electronic Health Records for health care and research. The whole point of EHR is to improve patient care and increase the efficiency of primary care practice. The goals of EHR are not often realized, this is because not all clinicians are enthusiastic adaptors of technology in the consulting room.

3.1 Research Design

In this research, it shows the overall strategy that we chose to integrate the different components of the study in coherent and logical way. We did this to ensure that the research problem will be addressed effectively.

3.1.1 Study and Questionnaire Design

We conducted a cross-sectional, self-competence questionnaire survey using a stratified cluster random sample of 1000 patients and members of the public in the Western area of Kenya. Before administration, the questionnaire was designed using Cardiff Tele Form survey software and piloted for use with 30 adults (over age 18) from the general population. Pilot participants were selected from patient advocacy groups, patient and public involvement networks and personal contacts of the research team.

Participants varied according to age, gender, education, ethnicity, parents, careers, people with and without long term health conditions. We also looked at people with differing levels of experience with health care practice and research.

Multiple rounds of piloting and revision of the questionnaire were conducted over a period of 3 months until all participants fully understood each question, accepted the design and layout as a whole, and were able to complete it within fifteen minutes.

This study was granted ethical approval from the National Research Ethics Service.

3.1.2 Sampling

The cross-sectional survey was conducted over 6weeks. We invited potential participants from...