Unlocking the Potential of Health Information Systems in Public Hospitals: A Case Study of Mauritius

While health information systems (HIS) help with managing patient data, and improving cost-effectiveness in healthcare, its implementation in developing countries comprises several challenges including limited resources and inadequate support. As Mauritius is modernizing its health systems, it is important to assess the readiness of hospitals for HIS adoption in Mauritian hospitals. <i>Methods</i>: A descriptive cross-sectional survey examined factors influencing HIS adoption in Mauritian public hospitals. Data was collected via questionnaires from physicians, nurses, and administrators across three hospitals. The study aimed to understand the benefits, challenges, and facilitators of HIS implementation in the Mauritian context. <i>Results:</i> Of 142 questionnaires distributed, 82 (57.7%) were completed. Respondents included administrators (41.5%), nurses (40.2%), and doctors (18.3%). Computerized scheduling (37.9%), EHR (32.3%), and telemedicine (25.5%) were widely used. M-health was the most preferred for future implementation (19.4%). Most respondents (87.8%) reported needing HIS training. Key challenges included security (23.5%), ICT capacity (22.5%), and infrastructure (21.6%). The main benefits identified were improved health quality (16.6%), service efficiency (13.7%), knowledge sharing (13.7%), and improved decision-making (13.7%). <i>Discussion</i><i>:</i> The survey of 82 respondents showed higher engagement from administrators (41.5%) and nurses (40.2%) compared to doctors (18.3%). HIS, EHR, and telemedicine are widely used, with m-health preferred for future implementation. Key benefits include improved health quality and efficiency, while challenges involve security, ICT capacity, and infrastructure. Most respondents (87.8%) reported needing HIS training. <i>Conclusion</i><i>:</i> Mauritius still faces challenges in implementing HIS in public hospitals, thus findings from this study can inform strategies to improve HIS adoption and address existing barriers.