A context-aware adoption model for e-health systems in fragile health sectors: The case of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Keywords:
E-Health Adoption, Digital Health, Technology Acceptance Model, UTAUT, Health Information Systems, Developing Countries, Democratic Republic of CongoAbstract
The adoption of e-health systems has become a key driver of healthcare modernization and service delivery improvement worldwide. However, the implementation of digital health technologies remains particularly challenging in fragile healthcare systems characterized by limited infrastructure, institutional constraints, and resource shortages. This study develops and validates a context-aware adoption model for e-health systems in the healthcare sector of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).Building upon established technology adoption theories, specifically the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), this research integrates additional contextual factors relevant to fragile healthcare environments, including ICT infrastructure, trust, privacy and security, and the policy and regulatory environment. Data were collected from healthcare professionals and analyzed using statistical methods to evaluate the relationships between technological, organizational, social, and institutional determinants influencing behavioral intention and actual use of e-health systems.The results indicate that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use significantly influence healthcare professionals’ behavioral intention to adopt e-health technologies. Social influence and institutional support also play a meaningful role in shaping adoption behavior.
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