| dc.description.abstract | Purpose – The aim of this thesis is to develop a model that can predict the hospitals that are likely to adopt Mobile Health Systems (MHS) and the factors influencing their adoption. This study will reveal the reasons why certain factors are more influential than others as well as the reasons behind MHS adoption. Design/methodology/approach – Data was collected in three phases. In phase one, direct interviews with senior hospital managers were conducted in two cities. The objective of this phase was to develop a model of MHS adoption. In phase two, data was collected in 87 hospitals to identify the factors influencing MHS adoption. In phase three, six in-depth interviews were conducted to unravel the reasons behind MHS adoption in hospitals. Findings – The result shows that perceived ease of use, system reliability, system security and privacy of patients, IT infrastructure, hospital level, top management support, government policy and regulation and external pressure are all significant factors in an adoption decision whereas compatibility, perceived usefulness and hospital (organisation) readiness were found to be insignificant. Research limitations – Further research is needed to verify our findings by surveying other hospitals across the country. Practical implications – The model developed can be used by MHS suppliers to develop strategies that target potential adopters, as well as to increase the adoption rate in hospitals. The suppliers could also amend their strategies by fully understanding the reasons behind each factor that facilitates or hinders the adoption of MHS. The government could use the result to develop policy and promote the use of MHS. Originality/value – The study contributes to the continuing research in innovation adoption and diffusion in the healthcare context in the emerging markets. This thesis is the first MHS adoption research conducted at an organisational level among Chinese mainland public hospitals. It also contributes to the research literature by combining both qualitative and quantitative data to explore determinants of MHS adoption. Keywords – IT, Mobile Health System, Innovation, Adoption, Public Hospitals, China. | en_GB |
