Challenges in Implementing a Computerized Name-based Information Tracking System: Practical Experiences from Maternal Health Care

Abstract

This paper presents challenges encountered in implementing a computerized name-based system for tracking information of pregnant women and children in rural clinics. Results indicate that the implementation of a computerized name-based system faces potential challenges that include; understanding the complexity of local healthcare practices within the community as well as correlating standardised and improvised data collection tools used in health facilities. Other challenges are; application of localised and standardised procedures in healthcare provision, replacing the paper-based system and lastly gradual learning curve during the implementation. These are initial findings drawn from a qualitative research study conducted in the Coastal region of Tanzania. This study intends to improve data reporting and utilisation of health facility services for pregnant women, children and other key community members.