Experiences with the Implementation of Computerized Tools in Health Care Units: A Review Article

Demands for improved patient care as well as improved efficiency in the delivery of health care have increased dramatically in recent years. New technologies, including computers, are expected to play an important role in meeting these demands. The aim of this review is to identify the main challenges to the introduction of computer technology in health care and to identify what kinds of factors may promote or hamper the implementation process. A systematic search of relevant databases resulted in 299 hits related to implementation of computer technology in health care, of which 17 met all criteria for inclusion in this review. The following barriers to the adoption of computer technology were identified: negative attitudes, lack of knowledge, role adjustment related to the disruption of traditional work habits, and changes in established work roles. The dual needs to both assess and change attitudes were identified as crucial factors in allowing for the successful implementation of these new technologies. The challenges for future clinical work and research will be to influence the behavior and intentions of health care personnel, to focus on the benefits of introducing computer technology (CT) in health care units, and to make certain that the institution's leadership is fully supportive of the change. Furthermore, this review showed that if the introduction of computerized tools is going to succeed, an adequate training program is imperative.