Abstract

Ibegi Ibegi Saviour, Timi Fiekumo Buseri, Peter Pereotubo Akpe, Prisca Seimiegha Levi – Owonaro, Olodiama Providencia Chichi, Henry Messiah TMT, Owonaro A. Peter

ABSTRACT

Background: Despite growing awareness and partial utilisation of digital health technologies (DHTs) among pharmacists in Nigerian settings, adoption remains constrained by multiple barriers. Identifying and quantifying these barriers in a localised context is essential for designing effective, context-specific interventions. Objective: To identify and characterise the barriers to the adoption of digital health technologies among hospital and community pharmacists practising in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 161 licensed practising pharmacists in Yenagoa. Barriers to DHT adoption were assessed using a nine-item instrument rated on a four-point scale (1 = not a barrier to 4 = major barrier). Descriptive statistics were used to summarise findings, reported as frequencies and percentages of respondents rating each item as a moderate or major barrier. Results: The most frequently cited barriers at the moderate-to-major level were lack of government policy or guidelines (84.5%), poor availability of digital devices (77.6%), and cost of digital tools (78.3%). Limited technical support (73.9%), lack of management support (73.9%), poor internet connectivity (72.0%), and lack of training (69.6%) were also commonly reported. High workload and time constraints (65.2%) and resistance to change (60.2%) were cited at lower but still substantial rates. The dominant barrier profile was systemic and infrastructural rather than individual or attitudinal. Conclusion: Barriers to DHT adoption among pharmacists in Yenagoa are predominantly systemic, external, and policy-level in nature, rather than stemming primarily from individual resistance or lack of motivation. Effective strategies must address the enabling environment — through policy development, infrastructure investment, and institutional support — alongside individual capacity building. Coordinated action by government, professional bodies, and healthcare institutions is essential.