An Analysis of the Challenges of Green Information Technology Implementation in Hospitals and Treatment Centers

Abstract

Introduction: Today, the use of green information technology has positive effects on the health system, especially in controlling energy waste, reducing paperwork, lowering the use of technology and medical devices, and enhancing environmental and economic performance. This study aimed to investigate the challenges of implementing green information technology in hospitals and treatment centers. Method: This study was an applied research carried out in two phases: first, by reviewing the theoretical foundations and previous studies through the method of reviewing texts, the challenges of establishing green information technology in hospitals and medical centers were identified; then, to confirm and prioritize the identified challenges, these challenges were provided to 21 academic experts and IT officials working in hospitals. Results: On the path of implementing green information technology, hospitals and treatment centers faced challenges related to Human Resource Management System (2 components and 10 indicators), Institutional Pressures (4 components and 9 indicators), Administrative System (3 components and 16 indicators), Financial System (4 components and 4 indicators), Legal System (2 components and 3 indicators), and Organizational Infrastructure (2 components and 2 indicators). Conclusion: The implementation of green information technology in hospitals and treatment centers has a unique potential in reducing energy, promoting the recyclability of obsolete equipment and hospital waste, creating environmentally friendly products, and encouraging people to work remotely.

Keywords

• green information technology
• challenges
• hospitals
• treatment centers