Background of the Study
Telehealth, which includes the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) to deliver healthcare services remotely, has gained significant traction in many countries as a means of increasing healthcare accessibility and reducing costs (Akinyemi & Bello, 2023). In Nigeria, where healthcare access remains a challenge due to infrastructural deficits, telehealth adoption has been identified as a potential solution to enhance service delivery, particularly in underserved areas. Plateau State, with its mix of urban and rural populations, presents an ideal setting for examining how telehealth can be utilized to overcome local healthcare challenges.
Despite its potential, the adoption of telehealth in Nigerian hospitals faces numerous challenges, including inadequate technological infrastructure, lack of trained personnel, regulatory barriers, and resistance from healthcare professionals (Adeyemo & Ayodele, 2024). This study aims to assess the extent of telehealth adoption in hospitals in Plateau State and the challenges faced in its implementation.
Statement of the Problem
Telehealth has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in Nigeria, especially in remote regions such as Plateau State. However, the adoption and integration of telehealth systems in hospitals have been hindered by several factors, including poor internet connectivity, limited healthcare infrastructure, and insufficient knowledge of digital health systems among healthcare professionals. These barriers prevent hospitals from fully leveraging telehealth technologies, ultimately affecting patient care and hospital operations.
This study seeks to evaluate the level of telehealth adoption in Plateau State hospitals, the challenges hindering its implementation, and the strategies that can be employed to overcome these challenges.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of telehealth adoption in hospitals in Plateau State.
2. To identify the challenges faced by hospitals in Plateau State in adopting telehealth.
3. To propose solutions and strategies to enhance telehealth adoption in Plateau State hospitals.
Research Questions
1. To what extent have hospitals in Plateau State adopted telehealth technologies?
2. What challenges do hospitals in Plateau State face in implementing telehealth?
3. What strategies can be implemented to overcome the challenges hindering telehealth adoption in Plateau State hospitals?
Research Hypotheses
1. Hospitals in Plateau State have not fully adopted telehealth technologies due to infrastructural and technological limitations.
2. The adoption of telehealth in Plateau State hospitals is significantly hindered by factors such as inadequate training and resistance to change among healthcare professionals.
3. Implementing targeted strategies will significantly improve telehealth adoption in Plateau State hospitals.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on public and private hospitals in Plateau State. Limitations include potential biases in responses from hospital management and the availability of comprehensive data on telehealth adoption across different hospital types.
Definitions of Terms
• Telehealth: The use of digital information and communication technologies to provide healthcare services remotely.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: The physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a healthcare system, including technology, facilities, and trained personnel.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
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