The challenge of taking baby steps-Preliminary insights into telemedicine adoption in Rwanda

Abinwi Nchise, Richard Boateng, Victor Mbarika, Eugene Saiba, Oryema Johnson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper presents a case study on the adoption of telemedicine in Rwanda. Three key constructs which influence adoption and use of telemedicine technologies are theoretically reviewed and examined in these projects: technology readiness, organization readiness, and government readiness. The research examined the national telemedicine project which has been implemented in three hospitals.Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with stakeholders associated with the project and an in-depth review of related documentation and reports of the project. The study found that Rwanda has developed basic telemedicine capabilities in using video conferencing to enhance a participatory approach in teaching and facilitating continuous medical education and training. The findings suggest that the commitment of government to telemedicine, the strategic choice of using low-cost and less complex technologies, and strategic partnerships with educational and technology companies are factors which have influenced telemedicine implementation in Rwanda.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)207-213
Number of pages7
JournalHealth Policy and Technology
Volume1
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2012
Externally publishedYes

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