In search of Insights for Institutionalization of Telemedicine in the Health Care System in Ethiopia

Accessibility and health service coverage problems impact many low income countries. Telemedicine is one of the technologies that can play a significant role in reducing these healthcare related issues. The study is primarily aimed at exploring how institutionalization of a system occurs and its impact on system use. This study is informed by theories on institution and institutional work to develop a conceptual schema for institutionalization of Telemedicine systems. Using a case study methodology we explore the use of telemedicine at the Black Lion Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study reveals absence of organizing vision for telemedicine projects and limited role of actors to alter the institutional context in order to institutionalize telemedicine systems. When validated with further studies the conceptual schema used in this study would have great theoretical contribution. The link observed between institutionalization and Telemedicine system use will have practical relevance for similar projects.