A survey on health spending and comprehensive eGuide for healthcare: Challenges, implementation and future directions

The momentum of the health delivery for the last decade is due to the revolutionary advancements of digital transformation resulting operational efficacy and clinical workflows. The adoption of e-health and m-health solutions has significantly influenced healthcare systems and its delivery and patient satisfaction, particularly in regions striving toward digital integration such as a GCC member Sultanate of Oman. This study aims to examine the evolution, scope, architecture, benefits, and challenges of comprehensive centralized eGuide systems for healthcare centers, emphasizing their implementation and sustainability within the Omani healthcare context. A systematic review and critical analysis were conducted on existing literature and frameworks concerning electronic guidance systems. Comparative evaluation between traditional paper-based and modern digital eGuide approaches was undertaken to identify key enablers and barriers to adoption. The findings reveal that eGuide systems enhance accessibility, data interoperability, and healthcare decision-making. However, implementation is hindered by infrastructural limitations, data privacy concerns, interoperability gaps, shortage of trained personnel, and organizational resistance. Oman’s significant investment, exceeding one billion Omani Riyals that illustrates its commitment to state-of-the-art healthcare modernization. The study highlights that success depends on robust policies, stakeholder capacity building, and equitable digital access. The AI based centralized eguide system for healthcare centers of Oman is one of the comprehensive systems which is considered as the transformative phase for the achievement of Oman’s Vision 20240 especially the health objectives. Effective integration requires addressing regulatory, technical, and human-resource barriers to ensure sustainable deployment. The insights derived may guide other regional initiatives seeking to optimize national digital health strategies.