Failures and fallacies of eHealth initiatives: Are we finally able to overcome the underlying theoretical and practical orthodoxies?

Abstract

The growing and ubiquitous digitalization trends embodied in eHealth initiatives have led to the widespread adoption of digital solutions in the healthcare sector. These initiatives have been heralded as a potent transformative force aiming to improve healthcare delivery, enhance patient outcomes and increase the efficiency of healthcare systems. However, despite the significant potential and possibilities offered by eHealth initiatives, the article highlights the importance of critically examining their implications and cautions against the misconception that technology alone can solve complex public health concerns and healthcare challenges. It emphasizes the need to critically consider the sociocultural context, education and training, organizational and institutional aspects, regulatory frameworks, user involvement and other important factors when implementing eHealth initiatives. Disregarding these crucial elements can render eHealth initiatives inefficient or even counterproductive. In view of that, the article identifies failures and fallacies that can hinder the success of eHealth initiatives and highlights areas where they often fall short of meeting rising and unjustified expectations. To address these challenges, the article recommends a more realistic and evidence-based approach to planning and implementing eHealth initiatives. It calls for consistent research agendas, appropriate evaluation methodologies and strategic orientations within eHealth initiatives. By adopting this approach, eHealth initiatives can contribute to the achievement of societal goals and the realization of the key health priorities and development imperatives of healthcare systems on a global scale.