Suggesting a framework for preparedness against the pandemic outbreak based on medical informatics solutions: a thematic analysis

Abstract

Background: When an outbreak emerged, each country needs a coherent and preventive plan to deal with epidemics. In the era of technology, adopting informatics-based solutions is essential. The main objective of this study is to propose a conceptual framework to provide a rapid and responsive surveillance system against pandemics.

Methods: A three-step approach was employed in this research to develop a conceptual framework. These three steps comprise (1) literature review, (2) extracting and coding concepts, and determining main themes based on thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti® software, and (3) mapping concepts. Later, all of the results synthesized under expert consultation to design a conceptual framework based on the main themes and identified strategies related to medical informatics.

Results: In the literature review phase, 65 articles were identified as eligible studies for analysis. Through line by line coding in thematic analysis, more than 46 themes were extracted as potential foremost themes. Based on the key themes and strategies were employed by studies, the proposed framework designed in three main components. The most appropriate strategies that can be used in each section were identified based on the demands of each part and the available solutions. These solutions were employed in the final framework.

Conclusion: The presented model in this study can be the first step for a better understanding of the potential of medical informatics solutions in promoting epidemic disease management. It can be applied as a reference model for designing intelligent surveillance systems to prepare for probable future pandemics.

Keywords: civil defence; electronic surveillance system; framework; medical informatics; pandemics.

FIGURE 1

Screening flow based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses method

FIGURE 2

Thematic map of main concepts extracted from the literature review

FIGURE 3

The epidemiological subsystem model

FIGURE 4

The research and management subsystem model; NLP, natural language process

FIGURE 5

The outpatient subsystem model

FIGURE 6

The inpatient subsystem model

FIGURE 7

Overall conceptual model