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Impak Sihat: A telehealth system development and feasibility evaluation to empower rural population in Malaysia on the quality use of medicines

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  • Nor Ilyani Mohamed Nazar
  • Norny Syafinaz Ab Rahman
  • Nor Elina Alias
  • Syahrir Zaini
  • Tg Karmila Tg Mohd Kamil
  • Nurjasmine Aida Jamani
  • Mohamed Hassan Elnaem

Abstract

The escalating global burden of chronic diseases necessitates innovative approaches to enhance medication adherence and quality use of medicines (QUM), particularly in underserved rural populations. This study developed and evaluated Impak Sihat, a telehealth system tailored to address systemic healthcare barriers in rural Malaysia through a three-phase mixed-methods design. Phase 1 involved qualitative interviews with 15 villagers, revealing smartphone ownership, inconsistent internet connectivity, high social media engagement, and limited critical appraisal of online health information. Phase 2 utilised these insights to create a dual-component system: a public portal with Malay-language educational materials, appointment booking, and a practitioner platform featuring secured patient data management. Phase 3 assessed feasibility via community demonstrations with 77 participants (mean age 53.4 ± 11.8 years), showing high acceptance scores (73–87%) across six domains. Key findings included strong usability (87.0 ± 16.3) and interface design (74.8 ± 23.9), though older adults scored significantly lower on interface design for learnability (ρ=−0.29, p

Suggested Citation

  • Nor Ilyani Mohamed Nazar & Norny Syafinaz Ab Rahman & Nor Elina Alias & Syahrir Zaini & Tg Karmila Tg Mohd Kamil & Nurjasmine Aida Jamani & Mohamed Hassan Elnaem, 2025. "Impak Sihat: A telehealth system development and feasibility evaluation to empower rural population in Malaysia on the quality use of medicines," PLOS Digital Health, Public Library of Science, vol. 4(8), pages 1-15, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pdig00:0000937
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000937
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