Constraints in the Application of Information Communication and Technologies (ICTs) on Health Information Management in General Hospitals in the Niger Delta

Background: A number of factors can inhibit the introduction and successful application of ICTs in the health sector especially health information management in developing countries.

Aim: This study is aimed at investigating the constraints in the application of ICT in health information management of General Hospitals in Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

Methodology:A descriptive survey research design was employed in this study and a total enumeration procedure was used in selecting 200 health information personnel from the various General Hospitals. A questionnaire was used for data collection from respondents. Percentages, as well as statistical tool, and cross tabulation were employed to analyse data. Four research questions were used to guide this study.

Results:Of the 188 respondents,81.4%were without computer skills. Majority of the respondents (78.7%) agree that computer is an important device of ICT on health information management. 79.8% of respondents do not have stable electricity. 82.4% of respondents do not have access to internet facility.Finally, it was discovered from the study that there were an association between some of these constraints and the usage of ICT in General Hospitals.

Conclusion: There is still a global digital divide in developing countries with lack of access to internet facilities and stable electricity, largely untrained Health information management personnel and insufficient infrastructure amongst others. Provision of enabling environment and adequate training on ICT are crucial for effective Health information management.