Diffusion Process of a Medical Information System in Nagasaki Prefecture

Abstract

This study illustrates the diffusion process of a medical information system from relationships among healthcare providers in Nagasaki prefecture. Looking at the diffusion process on a prefectural scale, the cooperative behavior fostered by system-promoting agencies could operate as a common system between the differing related actors. In addition, the system was diffused beyond the jurisdiction of local government. The system-promoting agencies were combined with professional organizations, which increased the number of participating facilities through cost reductions.

However, the trust relationship with regional medical associations or regional pharmaceutical associations played several important roles on a municipal scale. The members of those professional organizations were fully aware of the economic value of the system. The investigation revealed that system diffusion has not only technical issues but also issues related to the characteristics of the professional organizations, which vary between regions.

The study area of Nagasaki prefecture contains many isolated islands and has large regional differences in medical resources. Against this geographic background, cooperative relationships among healthcare providers were developed before the introduction of information and communication technology (ICT). The conclusion of this study suggests that adequate consideration of geographical conditions of ICT diffusion and effects from a variety of spatial scales can make ICT function as social infrastructure.