Adoption of Emerging Web-Technologies by Medical Doctors in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State

Abstract

Emerging web-technologies play pivotal role in advancing remote patient monitoring and telemedicine services in various ways that are currently transforming healthcare delivery. Adoption of these technologies by medical doctors in their medical practice is generally considered as important for improved healthcare delivery. This study examined adoption of emerging web-technologies by medical doctors in Enugu metropolis, Enugu State. Two research questions guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive cross sectional design. The population of the study was selected 10 health facilities is Enugu metropolis. The sample of the study comprised 150 medical doctors drawn from the public and private health facilities in Enugu metropolis. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire. The data collected from questionnaires was analysed using frequencies, percentages, and chi-square test. Findings of the study revealed that majority of the medical doctors, 63.33% utilize patient remote monitoring devices to facilitate health care services. Also, majority of the medical doctors, 51.33% utilize telemedicine to facilitate health care services. Results showed that gender and practice-locations of medical doctors had significant association to the level to which they utilize patient remote monitoring devices to facilitate healthcare services. The study recommended that health policy makers should develop and implement ongoing training programmes for medical professionals to enhance their proficiency in using remote patient monitoring devices and telemedicine. This will ensure that healthcare providers stay updated on the latest features and functionalities of these web-technologies for maximal benefits. Government should recognize and address issues related to internet connectivity and infrastructure, particularly in remote or underserved areas. Improving broadband access and reliability will ensure seamless telemedicine interactions and also broaden its reach to a wider population.