Needs Analysis for Competence of Information and Communication Technology for Medical Graduates

Medical technology is instrumental to improve the services provided to patients, including those in middle-income countries. However, to date, medical information and communication technology (ICT) competencies have not been clearly elaborated and standardised. Thus, this study aimed to analyse the need to strengthen ICT competence for medical graduates in the Indonesian context. This work involved focus group discussions (FGDs) with 28 doctors and 12 clinical-year students, as well as in-depth interviews with four stakeholders. The data were transcribed, coded and interpreted using thematic analysis approach. The results reveal three salient themes: the use of ICT in healthcare and health education, the challenges involved in the use of ICT and the competencies in health ICT needed by medical graduates. Aspects of technical competence include the abilities to evaluate and utilise technology based on patients’ needs, build relationships with patients using technology, convey education through ICT and maintain data security and prevent its misuse. Intellectual, analytical and creative aspects include the abilities to apply biomedical and clinical sciences in the utilisation of medical ICT, employ evidence-based technology (evidence-based practice) and process and use data for the benefit of patients. Personal and professional aspects include the abilities to apply professional ethics and collaboration in using ICT, maintain patient confidentiality and adapt to technologies. The ICT competencies identified in this study can be used to develop and revisit the undergraduate medical curriculum.