Potential stakeholders and perceived benefits of a Digital Health Innovation Ecosystem for the Namibian context

Abstract

This paper presents the result of a study which aimed at identifying the potential stakeholders and perceived benefits of a digital health innovation ecosystem for the Namibian context as part of a larger study. Combining semi-structured interviews and qualitative questionnaires, a group of professionals from within the Namibian context and the global context were purposively selected to provide insights about the potential stakeholders and perceived benefits of a digital health innovation ecosystem for the Namibian context. The study adopted a qualitative approach. The main findings of the study suggest that stakeholders of a digital health innovation ecosystem include patients, professionals from various disciplines as well as government institutions, research institutions and innovation companies. The findings suggest that the implementation of a digital health innovation ecosystem for the Namibian context could improve healthcare services as a result of the collaborative and innovative platform. The findings of this study contribute to the emerging body of literature on digital health innovation ecosystems, specifically in developing countries. Furthermore, the findings of the study will inform relevant healthcare policy makers within the Namibian context in planning and implementing a digital health innovation ecosystem.