Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Organizations that depend on electronic health records are under increasing pressure to modernize, and User-Centered Design Methodology 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 user-centered design methodology in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in accessibility for users with disabilities that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how User-Centered Design Methodology can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing approaches to accessibility for users with disabilities within electronic health records remain largely reactive and fragmented, with little systematic use of user-centered design methodology despite its demonstrated value elsewhere. This study addresses the resulting gap by designing and evaluating a solution built specifically around user-centered design methodology.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a user-centered design methodology-based approach to improving accessibility for users with disabilities in electronic health records.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of User-Centered Design Methodology in enhancing accessibility for users with disabilities within electronic health records.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying user-centered design methodology in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can user-centered design methodology be applied to improve accessibility for users with disabilities in electronic health records?
2. How effective is User-Centered Design Methodology at enhancing accessibility for users with disabilities within electronic health records?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying user-centered design methodology in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its immediate technical contribution, this study offers value to organizations evaluating whether to invest in user-centered design methodology for their own electronic health records, and contributes to the broader literature on applied UI/UX design by documenting a concrete implementation and evaluation case.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of a user-centered design methodology-based approach to improving accessibility for users with disabilities within electronic health records. Reflecting its clearly defined scope, it does not extend to a full commercial rollout or long-term post-implementation review beyond the study period.