Contribution of Hospital Information Systems to the Optimized Management of Ambulances and Biomedical Equipment in the Context of Universal Health Coverage in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Abstract
Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires efficient management of hospital resources, particularly ambulances and biomedical equipment. Hospital Information Systems (HIS) emerge as strategic tools to enhance medical logistics. A descriptive and analytical study was conducted in five referral hospitals in Kinshasa. Data were collected using questionnaires, direct observation, and semi-structured interviews with 60 healthcare professionals. Statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS v25. Hospitals with an operational HIS reported higher availability of ambulances (76%) and biomedical equipment (82%) compared to non-digital facilities (51% and 58% respectively). A significant positive correlation (r = 0.68; p < 0.001) was found between HIS maturity and logistical performance. HIS improve planning, maintenance tracking, and service responsiveness. However, their effectiveness depends on staff training and systemic integration with other hospital components. Integrating hospital information systems represents a major opportunity to strengthen logistical performance and support UHC implementation in Kinshasa.
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