Utilization of Health Management Information Systems at Vihiga County Referral Hospital
Date
2024
Authors
Matini, D. J.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) play a pivotal role in healthcare institutions. Previous evidence reveals that health information management systems are essential in facilitating the achievement of organizational objectives linked to patient care. However, despite HMIS utilization in some hospitals in Kenya, the country is yet to enjoy the full benefits of HMIS utilization. This study aimed to study the utilization of HMIS at Vihiga County Referral Hospital (VCRH), by considering the level of use and factors associated with its utilization. A mixed method cross-sectional study was in which all the 214 staff at VCRH were targeted for quantitative data collection using a questionnaire while qualitative data were collected from 10 purposively selected key informants. While quantitative data were analyzed using Stata 15, qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed thematically using Microsoft Word and NVIVO. 156 participants successfully completed questionnaires, of which only 135 were included in the analysis after removing incomplete questionnaires, while 10 key informants were interviewed. Individuals were aged between 30 to 39 (45.93%), with males comprising 47.41% and females 52.59%. The bivariate regression models demonstrated a significant effect of technological factors, managerial factors, operational factors, and organizational factors on HMIS utilization (p < 0.0001) while the multivariate regression model only showed significant relationship for technological factors (p<0.05). The qualitative results showed that persistent barriers included unstable infrastructure, personnel reluctance, and system functionality limitations. Strategic efforts focused on infrastructure, digitization of workflows, and end-user feedback mechanisms were advised by participants. The study concluded that technological factors, managerial factors, operational factors, and organizational factors were vital factors affecting the utilization of HMIS at VCRH while persistent barriers included unstable infrastructure, personnel reluctance, and system functionality limitations. There is a need to leverage on the identified factors to facilitate better transition to paperless record-keeping at VCRH.
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