Mobile Health Systems Affordability in India: Perspectives of Stakeholders

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study were to identify stakeholder perspective for achieving affordable and cost-effective system outcomes and what describes success associated with mHealth systems in India. This study identifies stakeholder views on (a) fundamental conditions for initiating mobile health (mHealth) systems and (b) desirable outcomes regarding affordable and cost-effectiveness of successful mHealth systems. Design/Methodology/Approach: This qualitative study uses existing models of affordability and used an inductive approach to organise emerging codes as per a priori themes. Data were collected from direct observations and 17 in-depth interviews both online and offline involving stakeholder, namely healthcare professionals, technology entrepreneurs and software developers working on health information and mHealth systems. Findings: Findings illustrated people’s need and unwillingness, lack of application infrastructure, ecosystem development, governmental policies, and training and support as factors influencing successful mHealth systems in India. Originality/Value: Earlier studies were less adequate in explaining mHealth systems affordability and cost-effectiveness from the perspective of stakeholder. The current study attempts to provide fundamental conditions and desirable outcomes that are considered to be valuable for developing mHealth systems. This makes healthcare providers with information of what needs to be considered for developing mHealth systems.