JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Successful implementation of any digital intervention in a healthcare setting requires adoption from all stakeholders. Appropriate consideration of behavioural change is a key driver which is often overlooked during implementation.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to characterise human behaviours that influence adoption of digital solutions within healthcare using the Non adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and Systems approach (NASSS) framework and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).

Methods:

A systematic search was performed in four databases (Ovid in MEDLINE®️, Embase®️, health management information consortium (HMIC), and PsycINFO). Included studies reported a behavioural change by healthcare professionals following digital interventions or the practicality of delivering such interventions. Risk of Bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results:

The initial search result included 2704 unique studies, 12 of which met the inclusion criteria and were extracted. Four domains were identified from the TDF and 8 from the NASSS framework focusing on the nature of the medical conditions addressed, the characteristics of the digital interventions, the profiles of adopters and end-users, as well as the organizational processes essential for successful implementation.

Conclusions:

This study delineated and analysed various critical behavioural factors impacting the adoption and implementation of digital interventions in healthcare. Based on these findings, future research must consider the key factors reported and alternative approaches to assess behaviours influencing adoption that are not presented in current scientific literature.