Validating the HOPT-Fit Evaluation Framework for Health Information Systems via Case Studies

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Patient Safety
• Socio-technical Systems Analysis

Background:

• Health information systems (HIS) are crucial for reducing medication errors.
• However, complex socio-technical factors within HIS can introduce new patient safety risks.
• Evaluating these systems rigorously is essential for identifying and mitigating potential harms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the human, organisation, process, and technology-fit (HOPT-fit) framework.
• To assess the applicability of the HOPT-fit framework in evaluating HIS effectiveness and safety.
• To provide insights into risk factors and mitigation strategies for HIS implementation.

Main Methods:

• Multiple qualitative case studies were conducted in Japanese and Malaysian clinical settings.
• Data collection involved observation, interviews, and document analysis.
• The HOPT-fit framework was applied to evaluate the studied HIS.

Main Results:

• The HOPT-fit framework proved applicable in evaluating HIS.
• The framework's utility was demonstrated in complex and dynamic clinical environments.
• Validation confirmed the framework's ability to assess HIS effectiveness and safety.

Conclusions:

• The HOPT-fit framework is a valuable tool for assessing health information system safety and effectiveness.
• Understanding socio-technical factors is critical for successful HIS implementation.
• The framework aids in identifying risks and informing mitigation strategies for patient safety.