Volume 18, No. 2, 2021
Novel Model For Implementing Internet Of Things (Iot) In Iranian Hospitals: A Cross Sectional Study Based On The Challenges Of Using Iot In Health Systems
Khadijeh Moulaei , Shirin Ayani , Kambiz Bahaadinbeigy , Rafat Bayat , Farhad Fatehi , , Farahnaz Sadoughi
Abstract
The internet of things (IOT) has led to ground-breaking changes in the healthcare industry as a promising technological solution. Yet, despite its many benefits, its application has always proven to be challenging. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the challenges of using internet of things in health systems with the aim of providing a model for implementing IoT in Iranian hospitals. This study was performed in three phases. In the first phase, the challenges of using the IoT were identified In the second phase, according to experts, this challenge was confirmed during the completion of a two-round Delphi. In the last phase, a novel model for implementing the IoT in Iranian hospitals was proposed. The model consisted of six groups, namely privacy and security, big data, hardware, network, software, and organizational-cultural and environmental challenges. Out of the 78 identified challenges, 46 were approved by experts as essential elements for providing IoT model in Iranian hospitals. The highest and lowest averages were related to the subgroups "Failure to provide regular IoT rules and programs by governments" and "Absence of single, integrated and efficient platforms with high data transfer capacity and fast data processing", respectively. The final model for implementing IoT in Iranian hospitals was designed and presented using Edraw Max10.0.4+Portable software. Challenges identified and this model can provide a sufficient basis, information and knowledge for policymakers, government authorities and managers of organizations to use the IoT in hospitals of Iran and other countries. Also, the proposed model can also improve special capabilities in system design; reduce failure in the initial design of IoT projects, and save time and money.
Pages: 135-153
Keywords: Internet of Things (IoT); hospitals; model; challenges; health care