Adoption of health information systems in emerging economies: Evidence from Ghana

Abstract

This research aims to assess the implementation of health information systems (HIS) in state-owned hospitals in Ghana, particularly focusing on teaching, regional, district, and quasi-government hospitals. The purpose is to evaluate the HIS application, training, data protection measures, internal system communication within hospitals, and the impact of internet connectivity and electricity supply on HIS adoption. The study employed a quantitative research design. Data were collected through questionnaires from 80 healthcare workers across 10 hospitals in Northern, Middle, and Southern regions. Quantitative data was analyzed using frequencies and percentages. The research revealed that although some hospitals had implemented HIS, there was inadequate training for healthcare workers. While data protection measures were in place, challenges included limited internal system communication, hindering effective HIS operation within hospitals. Additionally, poor internet connectivity and electricity supply hindered HIS usage and adoption. This study contributes by uncovering specific challenges in HIS implementation within Ghanaian hospitals, emphasizing the need for enhanced training, internal system communication, and addressing infrastructure limitations.