The Policy Implementation of e-Health in the Central Chest Institute of Thailand

Abstract

Most countries worldwide are embracing electronic health (e-Health) policies to tackle healthcare challenges, including the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand. This article aims to investigate the implementation of e-Health Policy and analyze the factors influencing its success at the Central Chest Institute of Thailand. This qualitative study employs documentation, in-depth interviews with key informants, and a semi - structured interview method. Thirteen staff members from the Health Information Technology and Medical Records Working Group, as well as health information technology executives, were interviewed as key informants. The data were analyzed descriptively. The findings reveal that the e - Health policy implementation process occurs at the Micro-implementation level, involving three stages: 1) The mobilization stage, which includes policy consideration and support from within and outside the organization; 2) The delivery of implementation stage, where the policy is tailored to suit the implementers in each unit; and 3) The institutionalization stage, during which the institute incorporates the policy into routine tasks and involves implementers in planning. The factors influencing the implementation of the e - Health policy consist of three main aspects: communication, organizational competency, and the supportive cooperation of implementers. In conclusion, the case study on e-Health policy in Thailand highlights the significance of factors such as policy acceptance, continuity in action plans, effective      communication, organizational competency, and collaboration among implementers. The proper implementation of these factors can greatly enhance the success of policy implementation. Conversely, overlooking these factors may lead to failure in implementing e - Health policies.