Next, a confirmatory factor analysis, using the EQS structural
equation modeling technique, was performed to empirically
validate the hexa-dimensional structure posited for the EHR performance
outcomes construct. As indicated in
Table 5, the six
dimensions were found to have adequate uni dimensionality, internal
consistency and convergent validity [61]. Looking at the mean
EHR impacts score for each of the dimensions confirms that up to
now, family physicians consider their use of EHR systems to have
had little impact, on average, on their medical practice. While they
perceive such usage to have increased their job satisfaction somewhat
(mean of 3.6 on a scale of 1–5; where 1 = no increase and
5 = significant increase), they are unsure as to its positive impact
on their clinic’s workflow (3.1), whereas they indicate no improvements
with regard to the quality of care services provided to their
patients (2.9) and to their efficiency as physicians (2.9). Moreover,
the absence on EHR impacts on average is even more confirmed
by our respondents with regard to their clinic’s financial situation
(2.7) and to the community served by their clinic (2.5)