Health Information Technology Implementation Strategies in Zimbabwe

Health Information Technology Implementation Strategies in Zimbabwe by Nixjoen Mandaza Mapesa MBL, Bindura University of Science Education, 2014 MBA, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, 2006 MBChB, University of Zimbabwe, 1993 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University June 2016 Abstract The adoption rate of health information technology (HIT) remains low in developing countries, where healthcare institutions experience high operating costs and loss of revenue, which are related to systems and processes inefficiency. The purpose of this case study was to explore strategies leaders in Zimbabwe used to implement HIT. TheThe adoption rate of health information technology (HIT) remains low in developing countries, where healthcare institutions experience high operating costs and loss of revenue, which are related to systems and processes inefficiency. The purpose of this case study was to explore strategies leaders in Zimbabwe used to implement HIT. The conceptual framework of the study was Davis’s technology acceptance model (TAM). Data were gathered through observations, review of organizational documents (i.e., policies, procedures, and guidelines), and in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 10 healthcare leaders and end-users from hospitals in Zimbabwe who had successfully implemented HIT. Transcribed interview data were coded and analyzed for emerging themes. Implementation strategies, overcoming barriers to adoption, and user acceptance emerged as the themes most healthcare leaders associated with successful HIT projects. Several subthemes also emerged, including: (a) the importance of stakeholder involvement, (b) the importance of management buy-in, and (c) the low level of IT literacy among healthcare workers. The strategies identified in this study may provide a foundation on which healthcare leaders in developing countries can successfully adopt and implement HIT. The recommendations from this study could lead to positive social change by providing leaders with knowledge and skills to use information technology strategies to deliver better healthcare at lower costs while creating employment for local communities. Health Information Technology Implementation Strategies in Zimbabwe by Nixjoen Mandaza Mapesa MBL, Bindura University of Science Education, 2014 MBA, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, 2006 MBChB, University of Zimbabwe, 1993 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University June 2016 Dedication This doctoral study is dedicated to all those who believed in me throughout this journey. Without each of you, none of this would have been possible. To my wonderful children, Kudakwashe, Abraham, and Zoe. Never give up on learning. I hope I have shown you the way. Acknowledgments It has been through the support of others that I have been able to complete this doctoral study. Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to my committee chair, Dr. Richard Snyder. Thank you, sir, for your patience and encouragement as you advised and guided me through the doctoral study process. I would also like to thank Dr. Tim Truitt, my second committee member, and Dr. Edward Paluch, University research reviewer. To Dr. Freda Turner and the whole DBA faculty team, a special thank you for your unwavering support. I would like to thank my family for their unwavering support during this journey. Even when it seemed like the journey would never end, you have been there with a foot in my back. You were there telling me that it will be done. Your invaluable support was pivotal in this journey. To my children, Kudakwashe, Abraham, and Zoe— thank you for being patient and understanding with the time it has taken to finish this doctoral study journey. I hope that I have shown you by example the importance of learning. No matter what direction your future holds, never stop learning. I will always love you.