A model towards data integrity in hospital information systems for South Africa

Abstract

Healthcare decision-making heavily relies on data. However, maintaining data integrity remains a challenge. Human error and malware threats continue to threaten patients' health information. Further, software or system malfunctions, or configuration issues with electronic data handling, can negatively impact healthcare data quality. Data integrity ensures that the data is accurate and has not been altered in any way. A Data Integrity Model for Hospital Information Systems was developed using the Delphi technique. An expert panel evaluated and validated the components of the model. The results of the study show the need for a Data Integrity Model for South Africa and the components needed to develop one. This study contributes to the body of knowledge in developing such a novel model. Additionally, the Data Integrity model is considered relevant and potentially applicable to the improvement of Hospital Information Systems and similar health systems.