Project – INVESTIGATING THE FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ADOPTION OF TELEHEALTH SERVICES IN LOKOJA
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Telehealth, the delivery of healthcare services via digital and telecommunication technologies, has revolutionized healthcare systems globally by improving access, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. In low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria, where medical infrastructure and workforce shortages are prevalent, telehealth provides a unique opportunity to bridge healthcare access gaps, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
Lokoja, the capital city of Kogi State, Nigeria, with its growing population and limited healthcare resources, stands to benefit immensely from telehealth innovations. However, despite the potential advantages, the adoption rate of telehealth services in Lokoja remains relatively low. Several factors such as digital literacy, internet connectivity, healthcare professionals’ readiness, socio-cultural beliefs, and policy frameworks may significantly influence the rate of telehealth adoption in the region.
Understanding these influencing factors is crucial for implementing effective telehealth programs that can improve health outcomes. This study, therefore, seeks to investigate the key determinants affecting the adoption of telehealth services among healthcare providers and patients in Lokoja.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the global advancement and benefits of telehealth technologies, the uptake in Lokoja has been sluggish. This is troubling considering the increasing demand for healthcare access, especially in remote areas with limited health infrastructure. Reports have shown that many healthcare facilities in Lokoja still rely heavily on traditional face-to-face consultations, and a significant proportion of the population is unaware or skeptical about the effectiveness of telehealth services.
Additionally, constraints such as inadequate internet coverage, low digital literacy, absence of enabling government policies, and concerns about data privacy and security further hinder the effective deployment of telehealth in Lokoja. Without a proper understanding of these barriers, efforts to implement telehealth solutions may continue to fail or yield minimal impact.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of this study is to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of telehealth services in Lokoja. The specific objectives are to:
Examine the level of awareness and perception of telehealth services among residents and healthcare providers in Lokoja.
Identify the technological, socio-economic, and infrastructural factors affecting telehealth adoption.
Assess the role of government policy and institutional support in promoting telehealth in Lokoja.
Propose strategies to improve the adoption and utilization of telehealth services in the region.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions guide the study:
What is the level of awareness and perception of telehealth services among the people and healthcare workers in Lokoja?
What technological and infrastructural barriers affect the adoption of telehealth in Lokoja?
How do socio-economic factors such as income, education, and digital literacy influence the acceptance of telehealth?
What is the role of government policies and institutional frameworks in facilitating or impeding telehealth adoption?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
The study will test the following hypotheses:
H₀₁: There is no significant relationship between awareness of telehealth services and their adoption in Lokoja.
H₀₂: Technological and infrastructural challenges do not significantly affect the adoption of telehealth services in Lokoja.
H₀₃: Socio-economic factors have no significant influence on the adoption of telehealth services.
H₀₄: Government policies and institutional support do not significantly impact the adoption of telehealth services in Lokoja.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is of great importance to policymakers, healthcare practitioners, technology developers, and the general public. For policymakers, it will provide empirical insights into the factors impeding telehealth implementation and offer guidance on developing effective regulatory frameworks. Healthcare providers will gain a better understanding of patient attitudes and technological needs, enabling more efficient service delivery. Furthermore, this research will contribute to academic discourse on e-health adoption in Nigeria and other similar contexts.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study focuses on the city of Lokoja, Kogi State. It targets both healthcare providers (doctors, nurses, IT staff) and patients who may benefit from or are involved in telehealth services. The research investigates factors including technological readiness, awareness levels, socio-economic status, and policy environment. It does not extend to other forms of digital health that are not explicitly related to remote consultation and diagnosis.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The study may be limited by factors such as:
Limited access to comprehensive telehealth usage data in Lokoja.
Potential non-responsiveness or bias from participants who are unfamiliar with digital technologies.
Resource constraints that may limit the number of healthcare facilities and respondents covered.
1.9 Operational Definition of Terms
Telehealth: The use of digital and telecommunications technology to provide healthcare services remotely.
Adoption: The decision and action of individuals or institutions to begin using telehealth services.
Digital Literacy: The ability to effectively use digital tools and platforms.
Healthcare Provider: A professional who offers medical or health-related services (e.g., doctors, nurses).
Awareness: The level of knowledge or consciousness about telehealth services among the population.
Socio-economic Factors: Attributes such as income, education, and occupation that influence behavior or decisions.