Abstract
Information and communication technology (ICT) play a crucial role in improving healthcare by providing innovative and more efficient ways of accessing, communicating and storing medical information. The use of ICT in healthcare is often referred to as e-health. Nowadays, e-health has become an essential in the health sector, due to the shortage of healthcare professionals, as well as the increase in the costs of healthcare services. Additionally, e-health ensures efficient and costeffective healthcare services, which in turn allows healthcare providers to streamline their processes. However, the literature shows that the adoption of e-health in South African public hospitals has been slow. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the factors affecting e-health adoption in South African public hospitals. A quantitative research methodology was employed: 265 questionnaires were distributed to staff at the Edendale Hospital, South Africa. Results showed that the presence of facilitating conditions, such as low-cost internet access; adequate ICT infrastructure; relevant computer skills training; government support; and the involvement of the hospital management, would encourage healthcare professionals to adopt and use an e-health system. Furthermore, healthcare professionals expect an e-health system to produce an accurate patient diagnosis, improve patients’ awareness regarding their health, and ensure enhanced information security. The study concludes with recommendations for e-health systems developers, hospital management and government.