Factors Influencing the Readiness of Primary Healthcare Facilities to Receive and Utilize Medical Devices in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35451/ksv9pv91Keywords:
Medical Devices, Primary Healthcare Facilities, Facility Readiness, Low- And Middle-Income Countries, Scoping Review, Primary HealthcareAbstract
Background: Medical devices are essential components of primary healthcare and contribute to improving service quality, diagnosis and treatment. However, their effective use depends not only on availability, but also on the readiness of health facilities to receive, operate, maintain, and sustain them. In low- and middle-income countries, evidence on readiness factors in primary healthcare facilities remains fragmented. Objective: This scoping review aimed to identify and map factors influencing the readiness of primary healthcare facilities to adopt and utilize medical devices in low- and middle-income countries. Methods: A scoping review was conducted using literature from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar published between 2010 and 2026. Study selection followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligible articles were extracted and synthesized using thematic analysis. Results: Fourteen studies were included in the final synthesis. Six major themes emerged: availability and appropriateness of medical devices, health workforce competence, infrastructure and supporting facilities, organizational governance and system support, maintenance and technical assistance, and financing and sustainability. Discussion: The findings indicate that facility readiness is a multidimensional construct involving operational, organizational, and sustainability capacities. Conclusion: Strengthening readiness requires planning, procurement, training, maintenance, financing, and monitoring systems to ensure effective and sustainable utilization of medical devices in primary healthcare settings.
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