A Systematic Review of Digital Health Interventions in Ghana

Abstract

Background: Digital health interventions have gained significant attention in recent years as a means of improving health care delivery and outcomes. In Ghana, where access to quality healthcare services remains a challenge, exploring the strengths, and limitations of digital health interventions is crucial. General Aim: This systematic review aimed to explore the trends, strengths, and limitations of digital health interventions in Ghana. By analyzing the characteristics of the included studies, targeted populations, intervention strategies, comparators, outcomes, and study designs, this study offers a comprehensive overview of the status of digital health initiatives in the country. Methodology: Employing a systematic review methodology, this study involved a literature search across multiple databases, data extraction, quality appraisal, and synthesis. Two independent reviewers screened and assessed studies for inclusion, with data extraction forms pilot-tested for accuracy and consistency. The analysis utilized the PICOS framework, focusing on both qualitative and descriptive synthesis. Findings: This review identified 29 relevant studies, published between 2004 and 2024, which address diverse health interventions using digital technologies across Ghana. 22 digital health interventions were identified in Ghana. These DHIs include mHealth, telemedicine, health information management systems, and electronic health records (EHRs), predominantly targeting general healthcare delivery, maternal and child health, disease surveillance, and specific conditions like dermatology and ophthalmology. 54.5% of these interventions were directed at both rural and urban areas, highlighting the country’s effort to address healthcare disparities. Findings indicate that DHIs enhance patient care, data management, and access to healthcare, especially in remote regions. They facilitate improved communication between patients and healthcare providers, viii reduce logistical barriers, and streamline healthcare processes. However, several limitations were identified, including infrastructural challenges like unreliable power supply and internet connectivity, human resource constraints, financial limitations, and the need for improved user training and system design. These factors hinder the full utilization and impact of DHIs, particularly in rural settings. Despite these barriers, the study concludes that digital health interventions hold significant potential for improving healthcare delivery in Ghana, provided that technical and operational challenges are addressed. Conclusion: Digital health interventions hold substantial promise for addressing healthcare challenges in Ghana. This systematic review provides a detailed analysis of current initiatives, revealing their potential to improve healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and outcomes. The study underscores the need for strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and policy support to foster the sustainable integration of DHIs into the healthcare system. The insights gained can guide future research, policy formulation, and implementation of digital health strategies in Ghana, contributing to the achievement of universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals.