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Transition from paper-based to digital systems involving Biometrics utilisation in healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia
ABSTRACT
Background:
The transition from paper-based to digital systems in healthcare facilities has been driven by the need for improved efficiency and accuracy. Implementing biometric systems, such as fingerprint recognition, has been a significant component of this digital transformation. This study aimed to assess the transition from paper-based to digital systems utilising biometrics in healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia
Objective:
to assess the transition from paper-based to digital systems utilising biometrics in healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia
Methods:
A phenomenological approach was employed to gather in-depth insights from participants, including Ministry of Health officials, healthcare workers, and end-users (patients). Semi-structured interviews were conducted across selected healthcare facilities in Lusaka Province, with data collected in both English and Chinyanja. Thematic analysis using NVivo version 12 was applied to identify recurring themes and patterns related to implementing and managing biometric systems.
Results:
The study found that biometric systems significantly improved the efficiency of patient identification and data management. Participants reported enhanced accuracy in patient records, reduced duplication, and streamlined access to information. However, challenges such as technical issues related to power outages and privacy concerns were noted. Additionally, barriers to acceptance included a lack of information, logistical challenges, and community misconceptions about the technology.
Conclusions:
The transition to digital systems, particularly the integration of biometric technologies, has demonstrated considerable benefits in healthcare settings, including improved data accuracy and operational efficiency. Despite these advantages, addressing the technical and perceptual challenges, along with enhancing community education, is crucial for maximizing the benefits of biometric systems and achieving a successful transition to digital healthcare in Lusaka, Zambia.
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Copyright
© The authors. All rights reserved. This is a privileged document currently under peer-review/community review (or an accepted/rejected manuscript). Authors have provided JMIR Publications with an exclusive license to publish this preprint on it's website for review and ahead-of-print citation purposes only. While the final peer-reviewed paper may be licensed under a cc-by license on publication, at this stage authors and publisher expressively prohibit redistribution of this draft paper other than for review purposes.