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

Abstract

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.