Perspectives on the role of health information management professionals in enhancing patient safety: A qualitative study

Background Health Information Management (HIM) professionals play an integral role in the healthcare system, supporting clinicians and healthcare service management by ensuring that data is trustworthy and reliable for informed decision-making. This study examined the key informant perspectives on whether HIM professionals contribute to patient safety in Australian acute hospitals and what this contribution entails. Methods This qualitative study involved semi-structured one-to-one interviews with HIM professionals and patient safety experts from across Australia, comprising eight from HIM and six from patient safety. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded. Charmaz’s grounded theory informed the data analysis approach. Socio-technical system theory was used to examine the components of society (people and organisation) and technical (tasks and systems). Results All participants stated that HIM professionals contribute to patient safety, with 100% of patient safety experts indicating that the contribution is both direct and indirect. The opinions of the HIM experts were mixed. Participants provided various examples of how HIM professionals contribute to patient safety through data, documentation, education, and records management functions. Values, beliefs, and attitudes aligned with key elements of patient safety culture, including teamwork, communication, learning, leadership, and patient-centred care. Conclusions HIM professionals contribute to patient safety by applying their knowledge and skills in managing, interpreting, providing and reporting information. Measuring this impact against National Safety and Quality Healthcare Service (NSQHS) Standards would contribute to understanding the direct impact of HIM professional's role on clinical governance and quality indicators.