Conceptual Framework for Smart Health: A Multi-Dimensional Model Using IPO Logic to Link Drivers and Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Informatics
• Health Systems Engineering

Background:

• Smart health represents a new phase of information and communication technologies (ICT) application in healthcare, aiming to boost efficiency and sustainability.
• Existing literature reveals a lack of a comprehensive perspective and a framework connecting smart health's drivers and outcomes.

Approach:

• A multi-dimensional framework was developed using the input-process-output (IPO) logic within a "system view" to integrate smart health drivers and outcomes.
• The modified Delphi method (MDM) involved 10 cross-disciplinary experts over three iterative rounds to achieve consensus on the conceptual framework's elements.

Key Points:

• Identified five key drivers of smart health: community, technology, policy, service, and management.
• Defined eight critical outcomes: efficient, smart, sustainable, planned, trustworthy, safe, equitable, health-beneficial, and economic.
• Each element represents a distinct facet of the smart health paradigm.

Conclusions:

• This research expands the scope of smart health beyond technology to include community and management perspectives.
• The proposed framework offers guidance for developing policies and plans to advance smart health initiatives.
• Promotes a deeper understanding of the smart health model by interweaving its drivers and outcomes.