Utilizing Open Source Clinical Information Systems in European Countries: Potential and Barriers

GNU Health, an open-source clinical information system, offers a comprehensive solution for managing health records, hospital information, and laboratory data. Despite its robust functionality and cost-effective nature, GNU Health remains underutilized in the European healthcare context. This paper explores the potential benefits of implementing GNU Health in European healthcare systems, emphasizing its capacity for customization, integration, and scalability. We also examine the barriers to its widespread adoption, including regulatory challenges, interoperability issues, and resistance to change from established proprietary systems. Through one case study and expert interviews, we provide insights into why these obstacles can hardly be overcome.