Determinants Of Effective Implementation Of Health Management Information System: A Case Of Wajir County Kenya

Abstract

The general objective of this study is to establish the determinants of effective implementation of Health Management Information System, a case of Wajir County, Kenya. The study was pegged to the following four specific objectives; health information management practices, technology, human resource and stakeholders. The study employed a descriptive survey research design to gain knowledge and understanding of the design and implementation of health information systems using Wajir County as a case study. The target population of this study was Health Information Officers, Sub County Health Management Team and hospital departmental Managers of the six sub counties of Wajir county. This study used an interview guide and a questionnaire to collect primary data. Data analysis used SPSS to generate quantitative reports through tabulations, percentages, and measures of central tendency. Based on the study observations the study concludes that health information management practices influence the implementation of Health Management Information System to very great extent. Although there was Internet connection in Wajir County, the Internet connection was not reliable. The study noted that the common internet connections utilised in the Wajir County was 2G of 3G with very few facilities utilizing 3G network connections. The findings also reveal top management of health facilities played a key role in the implementation of Health Management Information System. However, majority of the respondents indicated that the monitoring and evaluation function was weak in many of the facilities in Wajir County. The study recommends that the government should provide adequate infrastructure in the form of computers, internet connection and office space if necessary with the help of funds available with each institution. Take measures to involve the private sector through regular consultations and bringing in requisite legislations so that a comprehensive picture of the health status in the country could be obtained. Ensure the resources to strengthen data utilization are developed and distributed to every facility in the County for example manuals, standard operating procedures, research results and equipment like computers. The county should also improve the skills and competency of the staff with regard to data interpretation, use of information and evidence-based decision making through regular training programmes. Training related to HMIS activities should be conducted regularly in a planned manner with adequate and timely release of funds. There should be clear guidelines for the type of reporting and management of different data elements. Management of Wajir County Government should strengthen the Monitoring and evaluation function in health facilities with a view of enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in these facilities.