Barriers and enablers for implementation of digital-linked diagnostics models at point-of-care in South Africa: stakeholder engagement

Abstract

The integration of digital technologies holds significant promise in enhancing accessibility to disease diagnosis and treatment at point-of-care (POC) settings. Effective implementation of such interventions necessitates comprehensive stakeholder engagements. This study presents the outcomes of a workshop conducted with key stakeholders, aiming to discern barriers and enablers in implementing digital-connected POC diagnostic models in South Africa. The workshop, a component of the 2022 REASSURED Diagnostics symposium, employed the nominal group technique (NGT) and comprised two phases: Phase 1 focused on identifying barriers, while Phase 2 centered on enablers for the implementation of digital-linked POC diagnostic models. Stakeholders identified limited connectivity, restricted offline functionality, and challenges related to load shedding or rolling electricity blackouts as primary barriers. Conversely, ease of use, subsidies provided by the National Health Insurance, and 24-h assistance emerged as crucial enablers for the implementation of digital-linked POC diagnostic models. The NGT workshop proved to be an effective platform for elucidating key barriers and enablers in implementing digital-linked POC diagnostic models. Subsequent research endeavors should concentrate on identifying optimal strategies for implementing these advanced diagnostic models in underserved populations.

Obstacles & Barriers on Healthcare Digitalization: How to Improve Its Management?

“…They were analyzed using the dimensions of level, IT influence, and perception and applying the actor-network theory. Moetlhoa et al (2024) presents the outcomes of a workshop conducted with key stakeholders, aiming to discern barriers and enablers in implementing digital-connected POC diagnostic models in South Africa. The workshop, a component of the 2022 REASSURED Diagnostics symposium, employed the nominal group technique (NGT) and comprised two phases: Phase 1 focused on identifying barriers, while Phase 2 centered on enablers for the implementation of digital-linked POC diagnostic models.…”

“…The digital age represents a transformative economic and social phenomenon driven by key technologies, including artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), nanotechnology, biotechnology, and robotics (Moetlhoa et al, 2024). Digitization affects all areas of public and privatelife and their management (Sánchez-Bayón et al, 2024): people connect with friends, family, colleagues, and businesses and exchange data with each other every day via apps and platforms (Sánchez-Bayón, 2021).…”

“…The tidal wave of digital innovations, which has intensified into a technological tsunami over the past several years, has also impacted the healthcare sectors across the globe (Inampuid et al, 2024). The emergence of digital technologies has significantly impacted efficiency, effectiveness, and reduced healthcare service costs (Moetlhoa et al, 2024). Eventually, as EMR provides proper management of chronic disease and other social problems, it can save up to $142-371 billion per year (Numair et al, 2021).…”