Implementation of e-health innovative technologies in North Lebanon hospitals

Background: E-health is considered the single most important revolution in health care since the advent of modern med-icine. It is an emerging field of medical informatics, used in the organization and delivery of health services and informa-tion. It is expected to improve various aspects of health care. Aims: To achieve universal health coverage in Lebanon, and to explore e-health implementation in Northern Lebanese hospitals and factors influencing the adoption of recent specialized technology in e-health. Methods: We adopted an exploratory research method based on a semi-structured questionnaire. The main 14 hospitals in Northern Lebanon were chosen for face-to-face interviews to assess and measure behaviour and knowledge regarding e-health and its implementation. Data were analysed using SPSS software, followed by SWOT analysis. Results: The hospitals surveyed had partly implemented and continuously tried to apply some e-health technologies, but there were no real medical records for patients. Various challenges were faced for full e-health technology implementation in Lebanon: primarily cost, followed by some personnel resistance, lack of legislation and common standards, and the necessity for continual training. Conclusion: The majority of hospitals are conscious of the importance of e-health technology and the urgent need to im-plement these new methods. After the legislative rules are issued, the financial aspects remain the major handicap to full implementation. A major role must be played by the academic institutions to provide appropriate education on e-health in their programmes for future graduates.