Enhancing use of the electronic medical record in Belgian primary care through improvement of data quality, general practitioners’ knowledge and feedback

The electronic medical record (EMR) is a cornerstone of modern primary care, yet its potential remains underutilized due to persistent issues with data quality, limited practitioner training, and inefficient communication systems. This doctoral project aims to enhance the use of EMRs in Belgian primary care through a multi-pronged approach focusing on audit and feedback (A&F), education, and communication improvements. The first research theme develops and evaluates a set of quality indicators (QIs) for EMR use, establishing national benchmarks using the Achievable Benchmark of Care (ABC) methodology. These indicators will inform the creation of an EMR-use barometer, whose impact on data quality will be assessed through mixed-methods research and interrupted time series analysis. The second theme addresses the educational gap by exploring general practitioners’ perspectives on EMR use and developing a computer-based training module. The third theme focuses on improving interoperability and communication between primary and specialized care. It includes a scoped review of SNOMED-CT implementation and a pilot study on structured diagnosis exchange using FHIR messaging standards. Together, these interventions aim to create practical tools and evidence-based strategies to improve EMR usability, data quality, and care coordination in Belgian primary care. The project aspires to contribute to safer, more efficient, and data-driven healthcare delivery.