JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Urinary issues pose a significant burden on healthcare systems, necessitating innovative solutions to enhance patient care and alleviate provider workload. This study investigates healthcare providers' perceptions of urinary issues and the acceptability of technology in managing these conditions.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to explore healthcare professionals' perceptions of urinary issues and assess their acceptance and readiness to adopt wearable and remote technologies for managing these conditions. The study aimed to identify the attributes and barriers influencing technology integration in clinical practice, utilizing established theoretical frameworks such as the Health Belief Model (HBM), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT).

Methods:

A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted. A structured survey questionnaire was administered online to a sample of 256 healthcare professionals recruited through social media and personal networks. The survey included both closed-ended and open-ended questions to gather quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression, while qualitative responses were subjected to reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:

Quantitative analysis revealed strong correlations between belief agreement and factors such as health literacy (r=0.591), perceived burden (r=0.628), device attributes (r=0.650), and support services (r=0.622). Multiple regression analysis identified perceived workload (β=0.288, P=.036), device attributes (β=0.339, P<.001), and integrating technology (β=0.344, P<.001) as positively associated with belief agreement, while importance (β=-0.297, P=.011) showed a negative correlation. The survey demonstrated strong internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.954, indicating high reliability in measuring healthcare professionals' perceptions of urinary issues and technology adoption. Qualitative analysis identified four major themes: Technology & Innovation in Patient Care, Barriers to Technology Adoption, Importance of Training and Support, and Workflow Integration. Belief agreement is the agreement with the perception that technology is efficient, their confidence in its integration, patient acceptance, its transformative potential, and the value of investing in technological solutions for managing urinary issues.

Conclusions:

Healthcare workers' acceptance of technology in managing urinary issues is influenced by factors such as perceived workload, device attributes, and the ease of integrating technology into existing workflows. Addressing barriers to technology adoption, providing comprehensive training and support, and prioritizing user-centered design are crucial for successful technology integration. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and explore the perspectives of patients and other stakeholders to gain a more holistic understanding of technology integration in urological care. Clinical Trial: N/A