mHealth knowledge and usage in maternal healthcare delivery: perspectives and experiences of healthcare practitioners in Ghana.

objectivesThis study explored the knowledge and experiences of health practitioners regarding the use of mobile health (mHealth) for maternal healthcare delivery.

designUnderpinned by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, this study was an exploratory qualitative design involving in-depth interviews. Data collection occurred between July 2023 and January 2024.

settingThe study was conducted in three administrative regions in Ghana: Ashanti, Northern and Upper West regions. In each of these regions, one urban and one rural setting were selected to ascertain pertinent data from a wide range of maternity health practitioners and directors of health services operating within these regions.

participantsPurposive sampling technique was used to recruit 32 participants, who fall into two primary groups: directors of health services (n=9) and maternity health practitioners (23).

resultsThe findings revealed that maternal healthcare providers were familiar with and frequently used mHealth technologies (typically video calls/conferences and text messages). mHealth was considered a useful tool in maternal healthcare as it enhanced the efficiency of service delivery and improved practitioners' performance. mHealth facilities eased access to digital medical information, user-friendly interfaces and the ability to facilitate remote consultations. The willingness and ability of health professionals to use mHealth were conditioned by the nature of organisational and infrastructural support they received, including technical guidance and equipment availability. Thus, mHealth knowledge and use among maternal healthcare providers are predicated on personal, social and institutional conditions.

conclusionsMaternal healthcare providers are generally aware of the benefits of mHealth and are ready to use it when available. Thus, it is imperative that the Government of Ghana prioritise incorporation of mHealth into the existing and future maternal healthcare model to enhance care delivery and increase the prospects of achieving the first and second targets of the third Sustainable Development Goals. To ascertain greater gains from mHealth, it is worth acknowledging the varying factors that drive the adoption and effective use of mHealth, such as performance expectancy, ease of use, social influences and organisational support. Interventions aimed at enhancing mHealth integration should address these factors in a context-specific manner.