Sustainability Partnership Framework for e-Health Systems in the Public Health Sector: A Case of District Health Information Systems in Kenya

Abstract

This research work was designed to answer five key objectives, which together tried to explore the possibility of developing a partnership framework that brings together . key health stakeholders with common business interests/functions to support the development, implementation and sustainability of a national health information system for the public health sector. The research work adopted an exploratory based approach in which both primary and secondary data were collected using self-administered questionnaires, key informant interviews and published and unpublished data. Questionnaires were given to all participating institutions while key informant interviews were conducted with selected experts based on their experience on the subject matter. Published and unpublished data were used to expound on the emerging critical issues from questionnaires and key informant interviews. The research work established the existence of both the opportunity and willingness among key stakeholders to pull together resources, through a well-structured and viable business framework to support the development, deployment and sustainability of the national system. The country lacks the enabling environment (eHealth policy and regulatory framework); stakeholders' coordination structures are weak, duplication of efforts among development partners supporting HIS functions is rampant, and institutional and human capacity needs strengthening to support DHIS operations. Research work has identified critical success factors, and strategic roles of key stakeholders for effective use of public-private partnership. Partnership framework and its implementation plan have been developed. Implementation of the framework will result strengthened and responsive GoK leadership and coordination structures, local socio-technical capacity development and increased high-level political-business goodwill among policy makers. These are the required enabling factors to strengthen the stewardship and governance of District Health Information System for long term sustainability.