A Conceptual Model for Sustainable Adoption of eHealth: Role of Digital Transformation Culture and Healthcare Provider’s Readiness

Abstract

There is a consensus in research and statements made by practitioners in the healthcare sector that adopting information and communication technologies (ICT) in healthcare (referred to as e-health or digital health) has remarkable potential to promote accessibility, quality, and efficiency. Nevertheless, major challenges need to be addressed to fully attain this potential and reach a sustainable adoption of digital health. This research argues that while digital transformation stems from the ICT resources (capabilities) available in a healthcare organization, it is never about a technology being implemented, but rather a culture that needs to be nurtured to change behavior and drive better results. Accordingly, establishing a digital culture is anticipated to build on the ICT capabilities of the healthcare organization, assess the e-health readiness of healthcare providers, and contribute to the achievement of the ehealth desired outcomes through a sustainable adoption of digital health. Drawing on the integrated perspectives of Barney’s Resource-based View of the Firm, and the Knowledge Capability Theory, a conceptual model is proposed. The proposed model will be presented and discussed, and the limitations of the study and recommendations for further research will be presented.