Health-care technology transfer: expert and information systems for developing countries

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Information Systems in Developing Countries
• Technology Transfer

Background:

• Computer-based technologies, including information systems and expert systems, are crucial for healthcare development in developing nations.
• Effective implementation requires careful consideration of technology appropriateness and systematic evaluation.
• Prior experiences in technology transfer offer valuable insights.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the appropriateness of computer-based technologies for developing countries.
• To establish criteria for selecting technologies for transfer.
• To introduce a systematic approach for evaluating technology transfer effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A conceptual model for assessing transferability was developed.
• Analysis of prior experiences in transferring health information systems to developing countries.
• Application of operational research techniques, specifically the Analytic Hierarchy Process, for subjective assessment.

Main Results:

• A subjective assessment model was described to guide decision-making.
• The model systematically evaluates computer-based healthcare technology for transfer.
• The approach aims to amplify the role of information systems in healthcare improvement and socio-economic development.

Conclusions:

• A systematic approach is essential for effective transfer of computer-based healthcare technologies.
• The developed model provides a framework for informed decision-making in technology selection.
• This research supports enhancing healthcare and socio-economic development through appropriate technology adoption.