Adoption and User Experience of Government of Tanzania-Hospital Management Information System in Meru District Hospital, Arusha, Tanzania: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background Electronic medical records (EMRs) have transformed medical information collection, storage, retrieval and use. This led hospitals to invest in EMR adoption and implementation in developed and developing countries. However, EMR implementation is complex, thus calling for assessing the successes of such investment at the various stages of implementation. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the adoption and users’ experience of the Government of Tanzania Hospital Management Information System (GoT-HoMIS) in a primary healthcare facility. Methodology A case study employing a qualitative approach was conducted in Meru district hospital in Tanzania. It involved purposive quota sampling of nine hospital managers and healthcare providers. In-depth interviews, observations and document reviews were used. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was used. Results The study found that the top-down approach used to adopt GoT-HoMIS limited the preliminary preparations made by the hospital. The availability of a local area network, a reliable electrical power supply, and perceived benefits facilitated the system's use. The use of the system is hindered by partial system implementation, inadequate ICT infrastructure, insufficient ICT knowledge and skills among users, and inadequate management support. Conclusion The partial implementation and use of the system in the hospital, inadequate ICT knowledge and skills among users, and insufficient management support in providing funds for ICT infrastructure, training, supervision, and mentorship are the main barriers to effectively using the GoT-HoMIS. Therefore, the study recommended enhancing ICT infrastructure, regular training of users, and strengthening leadership and management support of system implementation.