Evaluation of Mobile Health Services in Health Organizations

Abstract

Mobile health (mHealth) has a crucial role to play in the health sector as it can improve communication and enhance the integration of healthcare processes. The aim of this study is to evaluate and enhance the mHealth services currently available through Saudi Ministry of Health (SMOH) mobile applications. To achieve this aim, the study adopted an applied (evaluation) research method and the data were collected through direct observation. Although the SMOH has developed five mHealth applications to deliver its mHealth services, the study found that they did not include several important health services such as appointment reservation, opening and updating of medical records, patient referee and consultation, physician directory, request for medical reports, and health risk assessments. Implications drawn from the study findings could expand an area of mHealth services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) which has yet to be adequately explored and evaluated. Additionally, the study findings may provide valuable insights for health professionals and administrators.