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| Authors | S Abela A Azzopardi |
| Abstract | Introduction: Information Technology (IT) plays a key role in the implementation of major reforms in healthcare. However, good knowledge of IT and availability of these systems does not equate directly with adoption in clinical practice. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), by Fred Davis, identified Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and Perceived Usefulness (PU) as predictors of Usage and Acceptance. Aim: To investigate the applicability of the TAM to Doctors in the Maltese Public Healthcare System. Methods: The study population consisted of doctors employed within the Public Healthcare System. A postal survey and a focus group were used for data collection. Results: There were 195 returned questionnaires (60% response). Computer availability was higher for consultants (61.4%) and doctors in public health (100%), but limited for junior doctors at ward level (8.1%). Less computers were available in primary care (20.8%), peripheral hospitals (14.3-33%) and out-patients (31% for consultants). Junior and Primary Care doctors had less access to e-mail accounts (64.9% and 54.2%) and the Internet (32.4% and 33.3%). Junior doctors were more likely to have had IT accreditation. The constructs of PEOU and PU predicted which doctors were more likely to use computers at their job. However adoption of the Patient Administration System (PAS) could not be predicted from Computer Usage or Satisfaction with the PAS. Conclusions: The development of an IT strategy for health, increased access to computer systems and training programmes should be considered in the implementation of a new Hospital Information System for the Maltese Public Healthcare System. |
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| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 15 Issue 1-2/suppl. 2003 |
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| Key words | computers, public health, technology acceptance model, IT |