Beyond technologies in the transformational process of healthcare digitalization
Authors:   , Qvarfordt Maria 
Published: October 2024

In Swedish healthcare, digitalization is gaining attention, acting as both a force and catalyst for eHealth initiatives. In the context of organizational change, adoption of eHealth solutions can improve healthcare. The influence of digitalization encompasses workplace dynamics, routines, and processes at organizational and staff levels. As healthcare organizations adopt digital technologies, understanding the impact of these technologies in workplace, organizational, and societal settings is crucial. This thesis addresses three research questions: 1) What aspects, viewed from the perspectives of society, organizations, and individuals, may promote or hinder collaboration related to digitalization within healthcare and with its stakeholders? 2) In what ways do healthcare staff experience the influence of digitalization on their workplace-related physical and mental health, and on their overall well-being? 3) How do healthcare staff experience the influence of digitalization on their workday routines and work processes? The overall aim of the thesis is to examine and describe the transformative process of healthcare digitalization from societal, organizational, and individual perspectives. The four studies included explore stakeholder interactions within the domain of eHealth, as well as staff experiences of digitalization as part of organizational change. Additionally, the thesis addresses health implications of digitalization in workplace settings. Study I aimed to explore eHealth collaboration from a Quadruple Helix perspective by employing a Quality Café followed by individual interviews. This qualitative study emphasized the importance of diverse viewpoints in collaborations driven by digitalization and eHealth. Study II, a mixed-methods study in public healthcare, explored the association between quality management, digitalization, and employee health among managers. The results of a questionnaire and individual interviews revealed associations between employee health and both quality management values and digitalization experiences, depicted in a conceptual model. Study III focused on medical secretaries’ experiences of digitalization; the results demonstrated the need for effective organization of digital efforts and clear role definitions. This study utilized a two-phase qualitative method consisting of a Quality Café and individual interviews followed by a quantitative phase. Study IV was qualitatively conducted at a habilitation center. The interviews uncovered mixed attitudes towards digital formats, highlighting the need for tailored digital consultations.This thesis contributes to the understanding of digitalization in healthcare and sheds light on domains such as digitalization-related staff adaptation and possible influences on professional values and workplace settings. Integrating stakeholder and healthcare staff needs is emphasized for successful eHealth development in societal and workplace settings. Insights highlight collaboration and inclusiveness as crucial for creating value and quality in healthcare. The importance of knowledge and competence is underscored for promoting staff well-being and integrating eHealth with society.