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Evaluating EHR (Impilo) Coverage in Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe

Authors

Lynn Mutukura

Provincial ICT Officer, Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe (Zimbabwe)

Dr. Nathan Chiboyiwa

Provincial Epidemiology and Disease Control Officer Matabeleland South Province (Zimbabwe)

Dr. T Masamha

A/Director Academy of Teaching and Learning Coordinator MSc Big Data Analytics: Graduate Business School Chinhoyi University of Technology (Zimbabwe)

Article Information

DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2025.1215PH000184

Subject Category: Health

Volume/Issue: 12/15 | Page No: 2476-2481

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2025-10-12

Accepted: 2025-10-20

Published: 2025-11-14

Abstract

This study evaluates the implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR) under the Impilo system in Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe, as of Q1 2025. Using descriptive analysis of provincial health data, we assess coverage rates, identify barriers to adoption, and propose targeted interventions. Findings indicate that 90.2% of the province’s 153 health facilities have EHR infrastructure, with 110 sites fully functional. Key challenges include power instability, connectivity gaps in rural districts (Bulilima and Matobo), and delays in user training. Innovations such as a WhatsApp-based helpdesk and mobile backups demonstrate adaptive solutions. The study highlights the need for infrastructure investment, accelerated training, and policy adjustments to achieve universal EHR coverage. These insights are relevant for Zimbabwe’s national eHealth strategy and similar low-resource settings.

Keywords

This study evaluates the implementation of Electronic Health Records

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References

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