Impact of anxiety-related factors on willingness to use EHR system: a perspective from health beliefs and organizational support model

Purpose – This study adopts the health belief model (HBM) and organizational support theory (OST) to examine anxiety-related factors (threat-related anxiety, surveillance anxiety and relational anxiety) and, in turn, to predict individuals' willingness to use electronic health record (EHR) systems. Design/methodology/approach – This quantitative study employs a web-based questionnaire to survey individuals in Taiwan who are concerned about health-related issues. A total of 987 valid responses were collected, and structural equation modeling techniques were employed to conduct confirmatory factor analysis and test hypotheses. Findings – HBM factors (perceived seriousness and susceptibility) heighten threat-related anxiety, while OST factors (perceived support for communication and recognition of contribution) reduce surveillance and relational anxiety, encouraging EHR use. Overall, implementing EHRs enhances public awareness of disease prevention and fosters acceptance of health technologies through positive physician–patient interactions, helping to overcome adoption challenges. Research limitations/implications – By integrating HBM and OST perspectives, this study explains how health-related factors influence individuals' behaviors toward EHR use and highlights the key role of medical staff support and communication in motivating adoption. Practical implications – Governments should promote public awareness and consensus on disease prevention. Hospitals can use EHR systems to monitor patients and issue timely alerts for potential adverse events. Healthcare professionals should also strengthen patient relationships and communication through effective use of EHRs. Originality/value – This study integrated the HBM and OST to develop a research model that explains anxiety related to EHR use and highlights how health consciousness and social support jointly influence behavioral change.