Exploring factors that affect teleconsultation adoption: In the case of Malaysia

This study identifies the factors that could affect the adoption of teleconsultation technology in public hospitals in Malaysia from the qualitative standpoint. Based on theory-driven and prior-research approach, a conceptual framework was developed and used to facilitate the data collection and analysis processes. The underlying framework derived from a consideration of integrated model of established technology acceptance and diffusion theories and also findings of published telemedicine studies. Semi-structured interviews involving twenty eight key informants coupled with reviews of relevant documents were conducted within eleven participating hospitals to examine the key issues addressed in the framework which subsequently entailed thematic analysis. A summary of six themes and sub-themes drawn upon a priori issues appeared from the patterning of the responses were found to be of great importance in describing teleconsultation adoption phenomenon in Malaysia. Most respondents perceived teleconsultation as beneficial and useful for delivering health services. However the central issues appeared to be more focused on the actual need for the technology, perceived trust in technology and subsistence of facilitating conditions in explaining the way teleconsultation is utilized, suggesting more rigorous research should be conducted to uncover and acknowledge the actionable factors that potentially influence teleconsultation and health information technology adoption.