Public health nurses: Are they ready for uniform data collection using electronic health data?

BACKGROUND: The use of Electronic Health Care Records (EHRs) are steadily increasing in healthcare. Using EHRs allows for increased collaboration between public health nurses, schools, and primary providers. However, due to technology and resource barriers the adoption of EHRs and electronic databases have not been as widely adopted among public health nurses. The purpose of this study was determine the current use and skills level of nurses working in the public domain; along with their willingness to change related to EHRs and electronic sharing of records. METHODS: A link to an online survey was sent to a convenient, national sample of public health and school nurses obtained from the National Association of School Nurse and public health colleagues. The tool was based on the literature related to technology and informatics competencies and Transtheoretical Model of Intentional Behavior Change theory. RESULTS:  Initial results related to data usage indicate that although many nurses collect data, with less than 25% collect and manage data electronically. Many expressed a willingness to change but indicate a lack of proper technology and training a barrier. Implications and current steps to assist in a change towards using and sharing records will be discussed. CONCLUSIONS: In order for public health to reach their full potential and be the leaders in health care reform’s community coordination of population health, it is important to ensure public health workers, especially PHNs have the skills and tools needed to work with EHRs.