Mobilising Local Networks of Implementers to Address Health Information Systems Sustainability

Abstract

This paper addresses the problem of health information systems (HIS) sustainability in developing countries. Two interrelated questions are addressed. 1) How do we mobilise the local networks in the present settings of shortage of human and capital resources? 2) In which ways are these networks sustained for the sake of the HIS sustainability? With empirical material from the information systems integration project for the Zanzibar healthcare sector, the analysis is centred on the communities of practice concept in conjunction with the networks of action concept. The study reveals that building communities through organised practical works helps to build such networks at the lowest level of the HIS bureaucracy, enhancing learning at minimal resource usage. To make the networks themselves sustainable, participation in the larger networks of similar activities to enable wider exchange of knowledge and material resources is very important. This direct involvement not only helps in knowledge and resource exchange but also helps to forge political establishment which is highly important in influencing decisions concerning HIS related issues.