Drivers, enablers and resistors of electronic health record system implementation in India

Abstract

Technology enabled healthcare is transforming the healthcare sector by altering the way health services are delivered. An electronic health record system is one such intervention that has integrated technology with healthcare to improve the quality of care. Implementing an electronic health record system is a complex process involving multiple stakeholders. Research has shown that a substantial amount of projects fail, or are scrapped, leading to a loss in terms of finances effort and resources. It is, therefore, vital to identify the drivers, enablers and resistors of the electronic health record system implementation in order to gain a better understanding of the process. The majority of research on electronic health record initiatives has been undertaken in developed countries. However, there is a significant difference in infrastructure, regulatory policies, demographics and context between the developed and the developing countries, and the research from the developed countries cannot be wholeheartedly replicated in an emerging market. This article explores the drivers, enablers and resistors of the electronic health record system implementation. in a public hospital, in an emerging economy focusing on case based-evidence from India. The results are reflected in light of existing theories of change implementation and diffusion.