A comparative study of OpenMRS AND OpenClinic eHEALTH systems in the provision of health care services. case study Kacyiru Police Hospital and Nyamata District Hospital.

Abstract

Background: The implementation of e-Health is one of the key pillars in strengthening health care systems in Rwanda. Among different forms of e Health systems, HMIS has been adapted by MoH to help in management of hospital in great effective and efficient manner. Problem Statement: OpenClinic and OpenMRS e-Health systems are two open source software commonly used as Hospital management information system. However from the time of their deployment there is no study done to find out which one is better. This study aims to compare both system in term of functionality, effectiveness, and efficiency. Objective: This study aims to compare two open source e-Health systems currently used; OpenMRS in and OpenClinic in terms of functionality, effectiveness, and efficiency. Research question: Which one is the best between OpenMRS and OpenClinic in term of functionality, effectiveness, cost effectiveness and efficiency? Significance: The comparative information will help in health sector by guiding the MoH, decision makers, Advisors; investors; Stakeholders and Health facilities in selection while choosing which is appropriate, effective and efficient for deployment in their daily activities to manage hospital information. Methodology: The study was a comparative cross sectional study in which interviews, observation and questionnaires was used. There are three restricted forms in English and Kinyarwanda: one related to end-user appreciation, the second for hospital administrator related to administrative related outputs, and the third for ICT personnel related to technical performance of the system. Results and conclusion: Funding results show that the two systems have similar functionality, but, OpenMRS appear more effective and efficient than OpenClinic; p value is <0.05.This finding can’t be generalised in other Health facilities. Recommendations: MoH should keep deployment of OpenMRS in other hospitals. To administrators: follow up is highly recommended as administrative conditions determine the usage and effectiveness of the system.