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Saif Hussain Saeed Alharthi , Adel Saleh Awadh Algethami , Abdulkarim Mohsen Ayedh Albaqami , Fahad Saed Mohammed Alharthi , Nashmiah Fraih Abdullah Alshammari , Abdulkarim Saeed Mutayr Albarjas, Abdulkarim Farhan Jafran Alanazi , Bedoor Khalif Hamod Alshammery , Basil Mohammed Al Towairgi , Maha Mohmmed Hassan Aljehani , Abdulrahman Faye Alhayani , Faleh Mutair Jaddua Alshammari , Sultan Mohammed Al-otaibi

Abstract

Health informatics is a multidisciplinary field that involves the application of information science and technology to healthcare to improve patient care, education, research and administration. As digital technologies become more ubiquitous, health informatics is increasingly integrated into various health professions and specialties. Nursing, physiotherapy and health education are examples of fields that have embraced informatics but also face opportunities and challenges in its adoption.


The purpose of this review to explore the current state of integrating health informatics into nursing, physiotherapy and health education based on perspectives from professionals and educators in these domains.


 


A scoping literature review was conducted across multiple databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and ProQuest using relevant search terms. Reference lists of relevant papers were also reviewed to identify additional sources.    


A total of 45 sources met the inclusion criteria. Key opportunities identified included improved access to patient information and clinical knowledge at the point of care, enhanced communication and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams and across care settings and personalized, patient-centered care enabled by technologies like electronic health records. However many  challenges reported such as lack of informaticsand skills, insufficient resources,


issues with interoperability, and cultural barriers related to attitudes towards technology adoption.


At the outset, it is clear that digital technologies hold much promise for enhancing how these crucial professions deliver care and learn. Being able to easily access and share patient information electronically can streamline workflows and coordination between practitioners.


However, as with any systemic change, properly integrating these tools requires overcoming obstacles. A key issue raised is the lack of informatics competency among many current practitioners. Resources also cannot be underestimated implementing electronic platforms, networks, and support structures requires adequate allocation of funds and expertise. Procurement processes and budgetary cycles can stall momentum.


The results indicate that while health informatics provides considerable benefits, fully integrating it into nursing, physiotherapy and health education requires addressing technological, economic and cultural barriers. Strategies are needed for competency development, allocating adequate resources, and change management initiatives to gain acceptance. Future research could employ mixed methods to gather perspectives directly from end-users.


Integrating health informatics into nursing, physiotherapy and health education presents significant opportunities but also demands overcoming challenges. In conclusion, while the promise of health informatics is apparent, realizing its full potential demands a multidimensional, long term strategy that considers people, processes, and technology in an integrated manner. Policies should incentivize lifelong learning and coordination between sectors. With diligent efforts to overcome reskilling, financial, technical and cultural barriers, we can enhance care, education and outcomes through digital advances. 

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How to Cite

Integrating Health Informatics Into Nursing, Physiotherapy, And Health Education: Opportunities And Challenges For Health Management. (2022). Journal of Namibian Studies : History Politics Culture, 31(Special Issue 3), 1249-1266. https://doi.org/10.59670/3f7bah50