Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Enhancing Health Care Delivery for HIV Patients in Bamenda Health District, North-West Region of Cameroon

Abstract

The human population is being traumatized by various diseases every year, despite advances in medical practice and enormous efforts invested in global health. There is a need for ICT in managing health issues such as malaria, diabetes, vaccine-preventable diseases, neglected tropical diseases, Corona virus disease (COVID-19), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The objective of this study was to assess the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in enhancing healthcare delivery for HIV patients in Bamenda Health District. Methods: It was a descriptive-analytic cross-sectional study consisting of 388 participants recruited consecutively amongst health personnel and HIV patients from public and private health institutions involved in HIV management. The data was analyzed using the Statistical package of social sciences (SPSS vs 23.0). Data on socio-demographic variables, the use of ICT tools, and associated challenges were collected using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics was used to determine proportions and statistical analysis was set at p < 0.001. Results: Of the 263 HIV participants, 60 (22.8%) agreed that a computer was used during the consultation at the local hospital, and 150 (57.0%) reported receiving a text message or alert on when to take their medication. One hundred and nine (41.5%) participants utilized ICT to notify healthcare professionals when supplies were needed while 120 (45.6%) used at least one ICT tool to inform healthcare providers when need arose. Of all the ICT tool 39.3% personnel attested that they use computers. Most (97.6%) of the healthcare personnel utilized ICT tools to provide care to HIV clients, but 52 (41.6%) still used papers or logbook associated with an HIV patient to save or retrieve data. Amongst the ICT tools, Dama was most reported 32 (25.6%) in collecting, storing and retrieving HIV patient data. Excel (32.0%) and DHIS2 tool (22.4%) were the most used ICT tool used for analysis of HIV patient data while SPSS (2.4%) were the least used ICT tool. The healthcare providers were mostly in interested in training DHIS2 tool (23.2%) and Dama (18.4%). The main challenges in using ICT tool by HIV patients were lack of ICT tools (76.8%), poor network (54.4%) and high cost of data bundles. Lack of training in ICT tools (68.8%), no electricity (60.8%) and high cost of data bundle were common challenges faced by healthcare professionals. The utilization of ICT tools was not too encouraging because of several challenges including lack of training on these tools. The Ministry of Public Health should strengthen the implementation of the National Digital Health Strategic Plan through increased investment in ICT infrastructure within health facilities.