Challenges in Using IT Systems for Collaboration in Healthcare Services

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Health Informatics
• Geriatric Care

Background:

• Frail elderly patients require complex, multi-organizational healthcare.
• Coordinating care across diverse healthcare providers presents significant challenges.
• Ensuring person-centered care for vulnerable populations necessitates effective inter-professional collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify challenges in inter-organizational collaboration for frail elderly care.
• To investigate the role of Information Technology (IT) systems in these collaborative challenges.
• To inform improvements in healthcare work processes and IT system alignment.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing three focus group interviews.
• Inclusion of diverse healthcare professionals and a family representative.
• Thematic analysis of interview data.

Main Results:

• Key challenges include insufficient information exchange and inconsistent communication.
• Differences in IT system usage and deficient coordination were identified.
• Current work processes require better organization and IT system alignment.

Conclusions:

• Addressing IT system disparities is vital for enhancing collaboration.
• Improved work processes and aligned IT systems are necessary for effective frail elderly care.
• Person-centered care delivery depends on overcoming these inter-organizational and technological barriers.