Usability of health information systems in rural and low-resource settings of Sudan

Authors: Asim Seedahmed Ali Osman 1, *, Adil Mahmoud Mohamed Mahmoud 2

Affiliations:

1College of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafar Al Batin, Saudi Arabia
2Deanship of E-Learning and Digital Transformation, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafar Al Batin, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Mobile devices play an important role in Health Information Systems (HIS), especially in rural and low-resource areas of Sudan, where they help improve access to and use of healthcare services. However, these devices still face major usability problems, such as difficult navigation, inconsistent interface designs, hard-to-use input methods, and poor compatibility between devices. These problems reduce the effectiveness of mobile devices in meeting the needs of underserved communities. This study examines the efficiency, effectiveness, and user satisfaction of HIS features in rural settings, using the After-Scenario Questionnaire (ASQ) to measure how well users complete tasks. A total of 113 people took part in the study, revealing specific usability patterns and ongoing difficulties. The results highlight important design and functionality issues in mobile health applications and show the urgent need for adaptable user interfaces based on user-centered design. Such interfaces would support the smooth completion of key health tasks and encourage wider use of HIS in low-resource environments.

Keywords

Mobile health, Usability challenges, Rural healthcare, User satisfaction, Health information systems

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DOI

https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2025.07.017

Citation (APA)

Osman, A. S. A., & Mahmoud, A. M. M. (2025). Usability of health information systems in rural and low-resource settings of Sudan. International Journal of Advanced and Applied Sciences, 12(7), 173–177. https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2025.07.017