Journal of Health & Medical Informatics

Development the Health Learning Center System for Provincial Hospitals in Thailand

Abstract

Ratchaneewan Tangpakdee*,Onjaree Natakuatoong,Chaiyong Brahmawong

The purpose of this research was to develop a Health Learning Center (HLC) System for provincial hospitals in
Thailand. The methodology of this study using R&D processes, consisted of four steps: (1) studying the factors relating
to the states and problems of existing HLC system, (2) developing the HLC system prototype from obtained information
and validating the prototype, (3) implementing the HLC system prototype in three provincial hospitals, and (4) certifying
the HLC system and proposing the final HLC system. Qualitative instruments included a reflection log, a semi-structure
interview guide and an observation guide.
The research findings revealed that the HLC system for provincial hospitals in Thailand comprised four main
systems as follow: (1) HLC Establishing System, (2) HLC Planning System, (3) HLC Operating System: including six
sub-systems: (3.1) knowledge corner development sub-system, (3.2) health learning activity sub-system, (3.3) health
education and behaviors network supporting sub-system, (3.4) production and procurement of educational media subsystem,
(3.5) health knowledge database sub-system and (3.6) health information management sub-system, and (4)
HLC Evaluation System.
This HLC System was developed as management tools for staff at all levels in order to develop on health learning
center for their clients and the general public at risk of various diseases through individual and group active learning.
Replication of this HLC system can be modified to be implemented in provincial hospitals. In addition, this system was
a model of HLC System of hospitals in the district level throughout Thailand as well.