Use of Information in Hospitals: A Qualitative Study

Background and Objectives: Having clear picture about how information is used in hospitals can be effective in stabilization or correction of information flow cycle, decision making, planning and supervision of hospitals. This study tried to evaluate the use of information in hospitals. Material and Methods: This study was conducted in all hospitals in Tabriz (20 hospitals) using qualitative method. Participants (40 participants) included hospital managers and senior experts appointed by managers. Data were collected through semi-structured interview with participants by using an interview guideline about how hospitals use services information, information about beds, medicines, medical errors, information about customers and financial data. Thematic analysis was used for analyzing data. Results: Overall, 12 main indicators about use of information were extracted. Coordination, quality management, human resources management and education were the most frequent outcomes of using information in hospitals. Convening meeting and managing personnel were the most frequent action that authorities had taken in reaction to received information. Conclusion: Huge amount of information is produced and distributed among authorities in hospitals every day. Results indicate that the use of information is limited and in most cases results in convening meeting or coordination. Part of information, despite collection, is not reported to anyone. It can be concluded that information production and distribution cycle in hospitals needs revision.