Assessing the Impact of E-Health on Healthcare Provider Workload and Job Satisfaction in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose: This study systematically examines the impact of electronic health (eHealth) technologies on healthcare provider workload and job satisfaction in Ghana, addressing three specific objectives: assessing eHealth usage-job satisfaction relationships, evaluating workload and workforce requirement impacts, and analyzing technology adoption patterns and utilization outcomes.

Methods: A systematic literature review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines was conducted, searching nine major databases from January 2000 to September 2025, yielding 2,847 initial records. Primary data extraction utilized quantitative studies including cross-sectional surveys employing Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling, Workload Indicators of Staffing Needs (WISN) methodology assessment, and descriptive cross-sectional analysis of Health Management Information Systems utilization across multiple healthcare facilities in Ghana.

Main Findings: Strong positive correlation between eHealth usage and healthcare provider job satisfaction (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) with significant professional and organizational variations. Critical workforce shortages identified with WISN ratio of 1.43, indicating 43% understaffing, particularly affecting IT specialists (40% deficit). Substantial productivity improvements of 38% achieved across administrative functions, while 74% overall technology adoption rate revealed persistent 35-percentage point urban-rural disparities.

Conclusion and Recommendations: eHealth implementation demonstrates significant potential for enhancing healthcare provider experiences and operational efficiency in Ghana. Immediate priorities include strengthening technical infrastructure, implementing targeted workforce recruitment focusing on IT specialists, developing role-specific training programs, and establishing equity-focused rural support initiatives to address digital divide challenges and ensure sustainable digital health scaling.