Adoption and Utilisation of Electronic Systems in a Public Maternity Hospital in Tanzania: Evidence from Chanika Maternity Hospital

Abstract

Purpose: This study assessed the level of adoption and utilisation of electronic systems, namely Electronic Medical Records (EMR), the Government of Tanzania Hospital Management Information System (GoTHOMIS), District Health Information Software 2 (DHIS2) and electronic reporting systems, at Chanika Maternity Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach: A mixed-methods case study design guided by Digital Transformation Theory and Digital Dynamic Capabilities Theory was used. Data were collected through structured questionnaires completed by 51 hospital staff and semi-structured interviews with 10 key informants from hospital management and ICT units, complemented by documentary review. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Findings: Adoption and utilisation were generally positive (overall mean = 3.7). Regular use of the systems (M = 4.0; 80.4% agreement) and perceived improvement in work performance (M = 4.0; 82.4%) were rated highly, and ease of use was favourable (M = 3.9). However, adequacy of training (M = 3.4) and system reliability and accessibility (M = 3.3) were comparatively weak. Interviews attributed these gaps to limited practical and refresher training, unstable internet connectivity, power interruptions and delayed technical support.

Research limitations/implications: The study was limited to one maternity hospital and relied on perception-based measures, so the findings should be generalised cautiously.

Practical implications: Hospital managers and the Ministry of Health should pair system roll-out with continuous practical training, reliable ICT infrastructure, back-up power and responsive technical support so that routine use becomes effective and sustainable use