An instantiation of a process model towards health interoperability

Abstract

In response to the critical problem of fragmentation of health information, a process model towards health interoperability is articulated. In conceptualizing and instantiating the research artifact, the DSR method was operationalized through the Mullarkey and Hevner elaborated Action Design Research (ADR) process model. The ADR process model was considered an appropriate choice as it caters for an immersive exploration as part of an in-situ context. This study articulated in this paper is considered to have a problem-centered entry point, as it is driven by the researcher-practitioner's desire to understand what a “better artefact would look like”. The ADR process model is adopted, since it's iterative and in-situ nature is in line with the overreaching organizational research aim to develop a process model that can describe and guide the process of testing conformance of health information systems to the eHealth interoperability standards prescribed by the Health Normative Standards Framework in South Africa.