The Implementation of IClinicSys in Rural Health Units

In this 21st century, using information systems is not new especially when delivering telemedicine in the health sector. Using an exploratory sequential method, this study was made to determine the implementation of iClinicSys in rural health units specifically in Sorsogon City as well as the the gaps and issues in the utilization of iClinicSys and the enhancement program that could be implemented to improve iClinicSys. The study used mixed methods with structured survey forms/questionnaire, encompassing checklists, and interviews as instruments. The respondents for the study are the three (3) rural health units of Sorsogon City from its different districts namely; East, West, and Bacon as well as the main office of the Sorsogon City Health Office. This cohort will encompass both CHO/RHU’s IT personnel and encoders for iClinicSys with the sum of 18 participants. Results show that while there are areas for improvement, the overall implementation of iClinicSys appears promising. Consistent training, user support, and data accuracy are key to maximizing its benefits in RHUs. The strategies employed were important for the effective delivery of health services to their clientele. Based on the findings and observations, the following conclusions are drawn: The implementation of iClinicSys in RHUs is still in its early stages of implementation in many rural areas. The level of implementation of iClinicSys to the RHUs is highly effective. The main gaps and issues identified are not enough staff/IT personnel and encoders to input patient demographics in iClinicSys as the most crucial problem, and there is no regular feedback from healthcare professionals and patients which is essential for refining iClinicSys and addressing gaps, as well as regular maintenance, bug fixes, and system upgrades, are not done which results in outdated features and security vulnerabilities. The solutions offered by the respondents are hiring or assigning additional encoders as well as investing in training programs to empower employees with the necessary skills to navigate iClinicSys effectively, regular feedback from healthcare professionals and patients that can provide insights into the system's functionality, identify any gaps, and suggest improvements, and timely maintenance and updates.