Project Management and Telemedicine

Perspectives in Digital Health

COMMENTARY

By Rudi T. de Koker

South Africa

Abstract

Effective implementation of Telemedicine solutions in healthcare service delivery requires robust project management strategies and stakeholder engagement. Christie (2020) emphasises the importance of stakeholder involvement in telemedicine projects in Nairobi County, finding that early engagement of stakeholders increased the acceptance and adoption of telemedicine services by healthcare providers and patients. Similarly, Grobler (2020) propose a model for teaching imaging informatics as a platform in biomedical informatics, aimed at preparing healthcare providers for the adoption and implementation of ICT solutions in a future integrated National Health Insurance system in South Africa.

As the healthcare sector continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, healthcare providers must engage with stakeholders and adopt evidence-based project management strategies to ensure successful implementation. Effective stakeholder engagement builds trust and enhances communication, critical for successful implementation. By embracing emerging technologies and leveraging evidence-based models, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes, enhance service delivery, and reduce costs. The proposed model for teaching imaging informatics highlights the need for healthcare providers to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively use ICT solutions in healthcare service delivery. As the South African government moves towards implementing a National Health Insurance system, it is critical for healthcare providers to prepare for the adoption and implementation of ICT solutions. Effective stakeholder engagement and robust project management strategies can ensure successful implementation, improving healthcare delivery and outcomes.

Introduction

In recent years, the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) has gained significant attention in the healthcare sector. As the demand for quality healthcare services continues to grow, public and private healthcare providers are increasingly turning to ICT solutions to improve patient outcomes, enhance service delivery, and reduce costs. In this article, we review key insights from eight scholarly articles that explore various aspects of project management and telemedicine perspectives in digital health.

Stakeholder influence in public sector information systems strategy implementation—The case of public hospitals in South Africa

One of the critical factors influencing the success of ICT projects in healthcare is stakeholder involvement. In their study on public hospitals in South Africa, Kekana and Pretorius (2020) found that stakeholder involvement played a vital role in the successful implementation of information systems strategy. The authors suggest that involving key stakeholders in the project planning and decision-making process can enhance buy-in, improve communication, and increase project acceptance and adoption.

Healthcare systems: future predictions for global care

With the advent of new and emerging technologies, the healthcare sector is set to undergo significant changes in the coming years. In their article on future predictions for global care, Braithwaiten (2018) explore the potential impact of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and blockchain on healthcare systems worldwide. The authors argue that the adoption of these technologies has the potential to transform healthcare delivery, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce costs.

The development of a telemedicine service maturity model

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in improving access to healthcare services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Van Dyk (2013) proposes a telemedicine service maturity model that can be used to assess the readiness of healthcare organisations to adopt and implement telemedicine services. The model comprises four stages – initiation, expansion, integration, and optimisation – and provides a framework for healthcare providers to plan and execute telemedicine projects effectively.

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How to cite this article: De Koker, R. (2023).  Project Management and Telemedicine Perspectives in Digital Health, commentary, PM World Journal, Vol. XII, Issue VI, June.  Available online at https://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pmwj130-Jun2023-De-Koker-project-management-and-telemedicine.pdf

About the Author

Rudi de Koker

South Africa

Rudi de Koker holds a master’s degree in business administration (CPUT) and a Bachelor of Technology in Project Management (CPUT); he is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with a passion for healthcare and HIV/AIDS management that led him to pursue a Post Graduate Diploma in this field from Stellenbosch University in 2011. He is currently enrolled for a PhD with a focus on Telemedicine. Rudi possesses a wealth of knowledge working in both the private and NGO sectors managing large scale projects within healthcare. Prior to enrolling for the PhD, he was the Managing Executive for a national HIV/AIDS programme in South Africa. Rudi’s interests are in Project Management, Universal Health Coverage, Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence. He can be contacted at rudidekokermobile@gmail.com