Abstract

This study assessed the current health information management (HIM) practices for chronic patients in Ngo and Bonny General Hospitals, Rivers State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted with a total population sample of 100 respondents including doctors, nurses, medical records officers, and other healthcare staff. A validated questionnaire with a Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficient of 0.60 was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using simple percentage statistics. Findings revealed that 68% of respondents confirmed the existence of established HIM systems for chronic patients, 72% indicated dual (paper and electronic) record storage, and only 54% confirmed inter-facility information sharing through standardized formats. Standardization across departments was reported by 61% of respondents. The study concludes that while basic HIM infrastructure exists, significant gaps persist in full standardization and inter-facility data sharing. Strengthening Universal Health Information Management Format (UHIMF) adoption is recommended to enhance chronic care quality in these facilities