Evaluating Clinical Informatics Tools in Public Clinics: A Case Study of Healthcare Delivery

Abstract

The healthcare sector is a crucial pillar in community wellbeing due to its significant role in providing healthcare services. Over the last decade, the need for improved healthcare services has become essential for enhancing patient outcomes and life expectancy. To address this  need, public healthcare systems have been employing various mechanisms, including the adoption of clinical informatics tools and resources in public clinics. This study focuses on evaluating the functionalities and implications of clinical informatics tools in public clinics situated in the Msunduzi Municipality, South Africa. The study investigates the adoption and usage of these tools, examining how they can be institutionalized to improve healthcare delivery for both communicable and non-communicable diseases. The research utilizes both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Semi-structured interviews with senior management and survey questionnaires with operational staff are conducted to gather comprehensive data on the use and impact of clinical informatics tools. The findings reveal a fragmented presence of these tools in public healthcare facilities and highlight several challenges, including insufficient hardware, lack of awareness about ICT applications, and limited access to data infrastructure. The study concludes with recommendations for improving clinical informatics policies, management practices, resources, skills, training, infrastructure, and funding support. These recommendations aim to enhance the adoption and effective use of clinical informatics tools, ultimately improving healthcare delivery in public clinics.

https://doi.org/10.59200/ICONIC.2024.018