Abstract
BackgroundThe Gambia, like many other developing countries, has encountered numerous challenges in terms of developing effective and efficient health information systems (HISs). The country's health sector is characterized by a human resource base lacking in numbers and specialized skills, coupled with poor information management and ineffective referral systems. These factors have rendered the development and implementation of effective and efficient HISs more complex. MethodsWe conducted a quantitative study designed to evaluate the level of IT expertise in the Gambia's health care sector, availability of electronic health record (EHR) systems, database management and record-keeping methods, constraints on improving HISs, and willingness to implement an HIS. Furthermore, we investigated the factors and fundamental challenges associated with improving HISs in health institutions in the Gambia, and we determined the willingness of clinicians to implement effective and efficient HISs. ResultsA total of 280 clinicians responded to the survey (response rate: 97.5%). In most hospitals or clinics, the lack of the availability of EHR systems (60%) and database management systems (66%) significantly influenced clinicians' willingness to implement an HIS (87%) to have significant positive weights. Considering to implement a HIS will improve the performance and quality delivery of clinicians. ConclusionOur results reveal that availability of EHR systems, database management or record-keeping methods, and constraints on improving HISs had significant effects and can serve as a baseline for policymakers to draft appropriate policies for managing and enhancing the interoperability of the Gambia's HIS before and after implementation.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.