Exploring Patients' Acceptance of Mental Health E-services in Morocco: A Quantitative Approach

Background The transformative potential of technology in addressing mental healthcare challenges is more widely acknowledged in Morocco. The government has taken active measures to address persistent mental health challenges and provide better care by exploring innovative digital solutions. Several e-health services initiatives have been implemented, including electronic health record systems, telemedicine services, e-appointment systems, and mobile health applications. However, the adoption of e-health technologies in Morocco, even for basic services such as the e-appointment system (EAS), remains notably low. Objective By assessing the constructs of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) along with additional variables, including trust in technology and perceived mental health conditions, this study aims to identify key predictors influencing patients' acceptance and use of EAS as a reliable way of accessing mental health support.  Methods Data were collected through a questionnaire survey administered to mental health patients receiving treatment at the Psychiatry Department of the University Hospital in Casablanca, Morocco. Patients were recruited based on their willingness to participate, while those with cognitive difficulties that impaired their ability to complete the survey were excluded. The survey was conducted over seven months, from January to July 2023, with a total of 200 participants enrolled during their visits to the University Hospital. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of EAS acceptance among mental health patients. Results The results indicate low adoption rates of the EAS, with many patients only trying it once before reverting to traditional scheduling methods, such as phone calls or in-person visits. Perceptions show optimism about the benefits of EAS but highlight areas for improvement in social and technical support to enhance acceptance. Performance expectancy, trust in technology, and facilitating conditions were found to be significant predictors of EAS acceptance and use among mental health patients. In contrast, effort expectancy, social influence, and perceived mental health conditions were insignificant and didn't appear to influence EAS acceptance meaningfully. Conclusion This study's findings can be used to develop effective strategies that promote the widespread adoption of e-mental health services and ultimately address the barriers to accessing quality mental healthcare.