Examining the value proposition and adoption levels of mobile service innovations by health workers and data collection in Uganda; case study: Bushenyi district

Abstract

This research is motivated by one simple question: Why do so many mobile service innovations fail to persist over time in Uganda? Despite the huge benefits realized by the end users (health workers), the research approaches this question using Service Technology Organization Finance business model (STOF) perspective in examining value proposition and adoption. Looking at Critical Design Issues for example (Security, Quality of service, Branding, System integration) and how these affect Critical Success Factors like, value elements, customer retention and trust which influence adoption, sustainability and more precisely challenges and recommendations for better implementation and adoption approaches in rural healthcare system. Qualitative approach involving semi-structured focus group discussions (FGD) was used to assess health workers views about mobile service innovation in healthcare system. FGD recordings were transcribed and translated into English. Thematic narrative analysis was conducted using ATLAS.ti5.2. In discussion health workers expressed positive impression in using mobile service innovations overall. However factors influencing adoption levels were noticed as inaccessibility of information and data to health workers, inadequate training, and lack of ownership, system integration branding and security challenges. In conclusion, this research is essential and necessary process of learning and experience sharing that avails such information to all stakeholders for sustainable m-Health implementation approach that is sustainable, scalable, and creates value addition to health workers to adopt mobile service in rural health care system with scarce resources