Implementing Mobile Health Interventions to Capture Post-Operative Patient-Generated Health Data.

The implementation of health information technology interventions is at the forefront of most hospital institutional policy agendas. Despite the availability of numerous apps and mobile platforms focusing on specific areas in healthcare the widespread integration into clinical practice can be a complex process. Here we present guidelines and methodology that we have learned in the implementation process of new technology and an overview of some of the current barriers and enablers specific to implementation of post-surgical site surveillance technology. Analysis of the experience of successful information technology (IT) implementation in different healthcare systems reveals that, despite differences among patient groups, care providers, and hospitals, there are common barriers and enablers to implementation of health IT. The process of implementation in organizations and among individuals can be most successful by identifying barriers and enablers within three key stakeholder groups: (1) patients; (2) care providers/clinicians; and (3) manager/administration within healthcare systems. This can be achieved by specific engagement and co-design processes establishing clear benefits, sufficient incentives, and adequate support for clinicians as well as payer-provider relationships, marketplace competition and privacy legislation. The successful implementation of such programs requires appropriate strategic planning to address the needs of three specific components: patients, care provider, and policymakers/healthcare management understanding and acceptance.