Mobile and web based applications for supporting locating of hospital services: a case of micro-health initiative organization

Abstract

Tanzania has various health policies and strategic plans including the digital health strategy 2019 - 2024". However, these policies mainly address systematic issues to ensure better availability and delivery of health services. The adoption of technology on the health sectors in Tanzania is growing rapidly. Other factors such as income and health insurance status also affect utilization of health services, and are not as widely captured. This study aimed at improving health services seeking behavior through the development of mobile applications and web applications that help patients identify health facilities near their locations, the services available at these facilities and the cost of services. The study employed quantitative research method where data were collected from community and health workers using questionnaires and observations. The data were analyzed using Jupiter python. The results indicated that both mobile and web applications improved accessibility of patients get to know nearby hospitals, services the hospital provides, prices of the services on different hospital. Therefore, it is easy for patient to decide depending on the money he or she have. The other key finding is that patients to be able to book the appointment depending on the hospital services chosen. Hence, provides easiness to the community for patients or anyone who need hospital services.