The Prospects and Challenges of Internet of Things (IoT)-based Public Healthcare System in Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to discern the prospects and challenges of integrating Internet of Things (IoT) into the public healthcare sector of Bangladesh. This is timely because the present public healthcare status of the country needs dire improvement. Hence, this study explores the future scope of IoT-based public healthcare systems to be introduced to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) of Bangladesh henceforth recommends how the country can integrate the implementation of this technology to deliver better public healthcare services to its population. Methodology: The authors reviewed extensively literature from several reputed sources to identify the current public healthcare conditions, as well as the benefits and impediments of IoT-based public healthcare system in Bangladesh. Based on the searches pertaining to the data base, this study then outlines appropriate future scopes of IoT in the public healthcare of Bangladesh. Findings: This research identified major impediments such as lack of infrastructure, low motivation, awareness and acceptance as well as poor healthcare startups prevalent in the public health services of Bangladesh. To surmount the inefficiencies of the current services, the authors deliberated how IoT based public healthcare system could foster better monitoring; management and rehabilitation thereby improve the overall Bangladesh’s public healthcare system. Practical Implications: IoT healthcare organizations can also use technology to improve patient outcomes and increase efficiencies, which will lower the cost of treatment, reduce death rates and make it possible to give public healthcare to people who live in rural areas. Originality/Value: The researchers of this study are confident that the findings of this study will benefit other researchers, policymakers, healthcare service providers/designers and professionals to realize the potentials of IoT-based public healthcare system that could overcome the challenges faced and finally could deliver sound public healthcare facilities and services for Bangladeshis in the near future. Limitations: In the future, we plan to develop the Central Repository of patient database system using blockchain technology.