The Percieved Benefits of a Mobile Health Service in the Developing Country: Bangladesh

Abstract

Background. The use of mobile technology has become more prevalent within the delivery of healthcare (m-health) within the developing world. Its use is considered convenient and innovative, but little is known about its effectiveness. Although promising, there is a lack of literature pertaining to its overall effectiveness. Purpose. This study takes the perspectives of threes groups of key stakeholders to describe the m-health service and the perceived benefits of using the mobile health technology implemented by BRAC in the urban slums of Korail, within the capital city: Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods. The study uses an exploratory descriptive case study design. The methodology includes demographic questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. The sample included three groups: the BRAC developers, the community health workers (CHWs) and the villagers. Conclusion. This study described the perspectives of those involved with the service, defining the m-health service as well as highlighting four major themes: strengths and benefits, knowledge and awareness, challenges and barriers and areas of improvement. The emerging themes found in the study provide paradigms of what to expect when implementing pilot m-health innovation and suggests direction for growth and sustainability.