Insights From an Usability Review of an Electronic Medical Record-Integrated Physical Activity Counseling Tool for Primary Care

FEATURE AT A GLANCE: This study assessed primary care providers' (PCPs) perceptions of the usability of an electronic medical record tool to support physical activity counseling in primary care. Our analyses revealed that usability improved when the electronic medical record tool followed a PCP's natural workflow and when the tool could assist in engaging in a discussion about physical activity. Poor usability was associated with the presence of large amounts of text on the screen and technological aspects that required additional learning. Overall, efficiency, workflow integration, and the inclusion of a care plan were vital in a physical activity counseling tool for a primary care setting.

Automated summary

This study examined the usability of an electronic medical record tool for supporting physical activity counseling in primary care, finding that usability is improved when the tool aligns with the natural workflow of primary care providers and facilitates discussions on physical activity. Poor usability was associated with excessive text on the screen and the need for additional learning. Efficiency, workflow integration, and the inclusion of a care plan were identified as crucial factors for a physical activity counseling tool in primary care.