Adoption of smart cards in the medical sector: the Canadian experience

This research evaluates the factors influencing the adoption of smart cards in the medical sector (a smart card has a micro-processor containing infor mation about the patient: identification, emergency data (allergies, blood type, etc.), vaccination, drugs used, and the general medical record). This research was conducted after a pilot study designed to evaluate the use of such smart cards. Two hundred and ninety-nine professionals, along with 72 48 clients, used the smart card for a year. The targeted population include d mostly elderly people, infants, and pregnant women (the most intensive us ers of health care services). Following this pilot study, two surveys were conducted, together with numerous interviews, to assess the factors influen cing adoption of the technology. A general picture emerged, indicating that although the new card is well-perceived by individuals, tangible benefits must be available to motivate professionals and clients to adopt the techno logy. Results show that the fundamental dimension that needs to be assessed before massive diffusion is the relative advantage to the professional. Th e system must provide a direct benefit to its user. The relative advantage of the system for the professional is directly linked to the obligation for the client to use the card. The system is beneficial for the professional only if the information on the card is complete. Technical adequacy is a ne cessary but not sufficient condition for adoption. (C) 2001 Elsevier Scienc e Ltd. All rights reserved.