Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Organizations that depend on electronic health records are under increasing pressure to modernize, and Artificial Intelligence has emerged as one of the more promising avenues for doing so, given its demonstrated impact in related domains.

Despite this potential, many existing electronic health records were not originally designed with artificial intelligence in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in process automation that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how Artificial Intelligence can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing approaches to process automation within electronic health records remain largely reactive and fragmented, with little systematic use of artificial intelligence despite its demonstrated value elsewhere. This study addresses the resulting gap by designing and evaluating a solution built specifically around artificial intelligence.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a artificial intelligence-based approach to improving process automation in electronic health records.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing process automation within electronic health records.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying artificial intelligence in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can artificial intelligence be applied to improve process automation in electronic health records?
2. How effective is Artificial Intelligence at enhancing process automation within electronic health records?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying artificial intelligence in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to software developers and system architects seeking practical guidance on applying Artificial Intelligence within electronic health records. It is equally relevant to organizations that rely on these systems, offering a reference point for evaluating whether such an investment is justified, and it adds to the growing body of work on artificial intelligence applications in software technology / IT.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of a artificial intelligence-based approach to improving process automation within electronic health records. Reflecting its BSc-level scope, it does not extend to a full commercial rollout or long-term post-implementation review beyond the study period.