Sustainable Adoption of E-Health Technology: An Exploratory Survey from the Perspective of Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

The research in both developed and under develop countries on E-health applications are essential for advance quality of healthcare facilities in healthcare organizations. Although Information technology could provide most efficient and low-cost means, in spite of its constructive usage, research shows that the pace of e-health acceptance in several developing countries is disappointing. On the grounds main obstructions are due to underdeveloped infrastructure, confrontation from healthcare professionals, and low level of technical expertise. This study, intend to explore, identify and analyze the fundamental factors that affect decision to adopt e-health by healthcare professionals and utilization of e-health technology applications in developing countries, with specific reference to hospitals in Pakistan. This study contributes to the existent literature by investigating the impact of Perceived usefulness and Perceived ease of use of Healthcare professionals towards the adoption of E-health services. Data has been collected through structured questionnaire from healthcare professionals working in Hospitals. Different statistical tools such as regression analysis, correlation analysis and factor analysis have been applied for analyzing the data. The findings of the study indicate that the perceived usefulness, willingness as well as the attitude of healthcare professionals has significant influence on their intention to adopt and use E-health technologies. Other factors identified are low health literacy, low experience in using E-health applications and not up to date IT infrastructure in Hospitals. This thesis opens new possibilities for the future as the findings have significant implications in Healthcare sector.