Authors:
(1) Prabath Jayatissa, University of Colombo
(2) Roshan Hewapathirane, University of Colombo
Interoperability among health information systems is crucial for improving healthcare delivery in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to quality healthcare is often limited. However, achieving interoperability in LMICs faces challenges such as limited resources, fragmented health information systems, and diverse health IT infrastructure. Strategies such as standardisation, consolidation, investment in health IT infrastructure, capacity building, and addressing data privacy and security concerns can enhance interoperability efforts. Collaborative efforts among governments, non-profit organisations, the private sector, and other stakeholders are essential for overcoming challenges and promoting interoperability in LMICs. Further research is needed to evaluate the impact of these strategies and identify novel approaches that are specific to the unique challenges faced by different regions and contexts within LMICs. Research on the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of interoperable health information systems is also crucial. Significant challenges include the need for more standardisation, fragmented health information systems, limited resources, and data privacy concerns. However, strategies such as standardisation, consolidation, investment in health IT infrastructure, and capacity building can help overcome them. Collaborative efforts are needed to address the multifaceted challenges of interoperability in LMICs and implement effective strategies. Further research and collaborative efforts are required to address the unique needs and contexts of LMICs and unlock the potential of health information systems to improve healthcare outcomes and advance health systems towards more integrated, patient-centred, and data-driven care in LMICs.
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