MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF THE CHALLENGES IN THE ADOPTION OF TECHNOLOGY BY HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN THE PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES (PHCs) OF NORTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

The integration of technologies, such as Electronic Health Records (EHRs), telemedicine, mHealth, and health management information systems, into the value chain of healthcare delivery especially at the Primary Healthcare (PHC) level is essential for improving healthcare delivery in settings where resources are limited. However, its adoption in Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in North-Eastern Nigeria remains low. The aim of this study is to identify, quantify, and model the key challenges hindering technology adoption among healthcare workers/professionals in PHCs across North-Eastern Nigeria focusing on three states viz: Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 284 healthcare professionals (Community Health Officers, Nurses, Midwives) across 45 PHCs in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states. Although 300 questionnaires were distributed, only 284 were returned completed. A structured questionnaire, designed based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), was used to collect and analyse data on Performance Expectancy(PE), Effort Expectancy(EE), Social Influence(SI), Facilitating Conditions(FC), and Behavioural Intention(BI). Data were analysed using SPSS v.26 and AMOS v.23 software. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to validate the measurement model, and the structural model was tested to examine the relationships between constructs. The measurement model demonstrated a good fit (CMIN/DF = 2.15, CFI = 0.94, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.06). The structural model revealed that Facilitating Conditions (β = 0.42, p < 0.001) was the most significant direct predictor of Behavioural Intention to use technology, followed by Performance Expectancy (β = 0.28, p < 0.01).