Investigation on the Consequences of Missing Case Folder in General Hospital Gusau, Zamfara State

Abstract

Missing case folders refers to as a loss, misplacement, or unavailability of physical or digital files containing patient medical information which consist of patients’ medical history, clinical investigation and final diagnosis for continuity of patient care. Missing patient case folder resulted to improper patient management, therefore patient case folder is the case indicator measuring the level of service provided to the patient. Survey research design was used for this study. The target population of this study was Health Information Managers. The instrument for data collection in this study area is check list tool. The result shows that Human Factor scale returned the highest reliability value among the individual determinants, with a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.81, denoting excellent internal consistency. The items within this section skill level, staff commitment, patient-staff relationships, and service delivery are closely related, indicating that respondents' perceptions of human contributions to the problem are measured consistently and reliably. The Natural Disaster Factors scale had a slightly lower reliability coefficient of 0.69, which is still within the acceptable range. This set of items assessed backup systems, space, shelves, and security measures in the context of natural events, and although less consistent than other determinants, it remains statistically acceptable for inclusion in the analysis. In conclusion missing patient case folder reduce healthcare quality and safety to the patient. Work experience plays a critical role in shaping staff awareness and concern regarding operational inefficiencies and infrastructural gaps that may lead to missing patient case folders. The study recommends that, there is need for management, government to providing necessary training to enhance service delivery mechanisms of Health Information Management Personnel. Good filling method should be provided to minimise missing patient case folders. Filling space should be provided to enhance the services.