The Health Records Department of the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, serves as the backbone of efficient healthcare delivery by ensuring seamless management and accessibility of patient information. Its services are aligned with the Centre’s commitment to providing exceptional care and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity. Below is a detailed outline of the services provided:

1. Patients/Clients First

The Health Records Department operates with a patient-centered approach, ensuring that the needs and satisfaction of patients and clients are prioritized in all its processes. The team works diligently to provide timely, accurate, and personalized service, contributing to an overall positive healthcare experience.

2. Provision of a Comprehensive Health Records Management System

The Department delivers a qualitative and quantitative health records management system, leveraging the latest technology to ensure efficient data storage, retrieval, and analysis. By incorporating best practices in health information management, the Department ensures that patient records are comprehensive, accurate, and well-organized to support effective clinical decision-making.

3. Timeliness in the Management of Patient Records

The Department emphasizes promptness in the management of patient health records. Timely record retrieval and updates are essential to avoid delays in patient care and ensure smooth workflow for healthcare providers. This efficiency enhances the quality of service delivery at the Centre.

4. Good Public Relations Between Staff and Patients

The Health Records Department fosters positive public relations by building trust and maintaining open, respectful, and compassionate communication between staff and patients. This relationship promotes understanding, satisfaction, and confidence in the services provided.

5. Confidentiality of Patient Health Records

Ensuring the confidentiality and security of patient health records is a top priority. The Department adheres to strict ethical and legal guidelines to safeguard sensitive patient information, ensuring that records are only accessed by authorized personnel and used appropriately.

6. Professionalism

The team operates with the utmost professionalism, adhering to industry standards and ethical principles in all aspects of health record management. Staff members are continuously trained to maintain competence, accuracy, and accountability in their roles.

7. Teamwork and Integrity

Collaboration and integrity are at the heart of the Department’s operations. Teamwork ensures seamless coordination across various units within the Centre, while integrity guarantees transparency, honesty, and adherence to ethical standards in every task.

8. Transition to Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

The Health Records Department has achieved a significant milestone by transitioning from traditional paper-based record keeping to an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system, powered by a sophisticated Health Information Management System (HIMS) software. This transition offers several advantages:

• Improved Efficiency: Digital records are easier to store, retrieve, and update, reducing time spent on administrative tasks.
• Enhanced Accuracy: Automation minimizes errors in recordkeeping and data entry.
• Data Integration: The EMR system integrates patient information across various departments, enabling comprehensive care.
• Better Accessibility: Authorized healthcare providers can access records instantly, enhancing collaboration and decision-making.
• Environmentally Friendly: The shift reduces paper use, aligning with sustainable and eco-friendly practices.