Policy Implications of the Concept of Technological Catch-Up for the Management of Healthcare Sector in Developing Countries

Abstract

The concept of technological catch-up can be used as a theoretical platform to design policies for the management of the healthcare sector in developing countries. In this article, initially, the factors affecting a technological catch-up process were collected through a conceptual literature review and prioritised using a fuzzy Delphi survey. The interdependences among important contributory factors were investigated as well. They were then used to create some policy recommendations for the management of the healthcare sector in developing countries through an interdisciplinary integration of the literature of technological catch-up and healthcare. Some exemplary projects/initiatives using these policies were collected too. The quality of human resources, a comprehensive knowledge management system, interactive learning and innovation-encouraging culture were rated as the most important contributing factors to an effectual technological catch-up in the healthcare sector in developing countries. Also, the creation of distributed health social networks, development of systematic knowledge management systems, forming strategic partnerships and designing path-creating technological catch-up processes by focusing on indigenous innovation were the final policy recommendations. All in all, the healthcare sector in developing countries should stop chasing frontiers, should try taking detours and flying a balloon by adopting a strategy of differentiation.

Determinants of data-driven decision-making among health providers: a case of Mombasa county, Kenya

“…18 Equally, inadequate data processing by software can lead to ineffective analysis and hinder significant conclusions for decision-making, consequently impacting information use. 19 Furthermore, the outcomes of this study align with those of a study done in India, which underscores that enhancing skills in analyzing, and interpreting, as well as decision-making encourages information use. 20 In their study, they revealed that a properly designed HMIS, coupled with appropriate training following internationally recognized practices, contributes to the data quality necessary for informed decisions.…”