JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Globally, the healthcare system is experiencing a period of rapid and radical change. In response, innovative service models have been adopted for the delivery of high-quality care, which requires a health workforce with the required skills to support such transformation and new ways of working.

Objective:

The aim of this research protocol is to describe the research that will contribute to the development of capability for health service managers in managing in the digital health era, and enabling digital transformation within the Australian healthcare environment, by seeking answers to the study’s three research questions.

Methods:

The study has adopted a qualitative approach, guided by the empirically validated management competency identification process, employing four steps: (1) health management and digital health competency mapping; (2) scoping review of literatures and policy analysis; (3) focus group discussions with health service managers; and (4) semi-structured interviews with digital health leaders.

Results:

Two initial steps have been completed to confirm the significance of the study and study design. Step one, competency mapping, found that nearly half of the digital competencies were only partially or not addressed at all, by the health management competency framework. Step two, scoping review, articulated the competencies health service managers need to effectively work with, manage, and demonstrate digital health competence in the workplace.

Conclusions:

This study will provide insights into the health service management workforce performance and development needs for digital health, and inform credentialing and professional development requirements. This will guide health service managers in leading and managing the adoption and implementation of digital health, as a contemporary tool for healthcare delivery.