Drones in the Digital Transformation of Healthcare Delivery in Africa

Abstract

AbstractHealthcare in Africa faces many challenges with the growing problem of diseases. However, most of the healthcare challenges confronting Africa are expected to be overcome with digital technologies. Recently, drones are increasingly being used to transport blood and medical supplies to remote and underserved communities in some African countries. However, academics are yet to catch up with empirical research on the impact of drones’ use on healthcare. Considering the paucity of research in this domain, this chapter investigates the drivers, conditions, and factors that facilitate the implementation and use of drone systems for healthcare delivery through the Delone and Mclean Information Systems Success Model lens. A survey was conducted with a questionnaire to gather responses from 298 individuals who are the staff of healthcare facilities and zipline drone operation centers in Ghana and Rwanda. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that information quality, system quality, service quality, user satisfaction, and perceived financial cost were confirmed as drone technology adoption drivers for healthcare. The use of drones has also substantially impacted healthcare delivery. Also, quick delivery time for drones, healthcare facilities in remote areas, and late arrival of medical supplies were identified as the most important factors and conditions facilitating drones’ implementation for healthcare delivery. It is recommended that governments in Africa consider the rapid adoption and deployment of medical drone technology to save lives in remote hard to reach areas. Future studies should explore the barriers and challenges that confront medical drone usage.KeywordsDroneHealthcare deliveryDigital transformationMedical supplyIS Success ModelAfrica