Factors Affecting Adoption, Implementation and Sustainability of Telemedicine Information Systems in Uganda

Abstract

Telemedicine has become a method of choice for improved access to quality healthcare services world over. The technology, which has been used for decades in the developed world, is now being diffused to developing countries. However, many initiatives have not lived to their expectations. In this paper, we present some of the main hindrances to telemedicine adoption, implementation and sustainability in Uganda. Case studies were carried out in two hospitals that have attempted to use the technology. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used to collect and analyze the data. Our findings indicate that the key factors affecting telemedicine in Uganda were lack of telemedicine policy, knowledge and skills and resistance to change by members of staff in the hospitals. A discussion of the findings inline with some selected technology adoption theories and models is done. We have also identified and discussed the key requirements for sustainable telemedicine in Uganda.