Big data analytics in the healthcare sector: Opportunities and challenges in developing countries. A literature review

Abstract

Background: Despite the ongoing efforts to digitalize the healthcare sector in developing countries, the full adoption of big data analytics in healthcare settings is yet to be attained Exploring opportunities and challenges encountered is essential for designing and implementing effective interventional strategies. Objective: Exploring opportunities and challenges towards integrating big data analytics technologies in the healthcare industry in developing countries. Methodology: This was a narrative review study design. A literature search on different databases was conducted including PubMed, ScienceDirect, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Articles with predetermined keywords and written in English were included. Results: Big data analytics finds its application in population health management and clinical decision-support systems even in developing countries. The major challenges towards the integration of big data analytics in the healthcare sector in developing countries include fragmentation of healthcare data and lack of interoperability, data security, privacy and confidentiality concerns, limited resources and inadequate regulatory and policy frameworks for governing big data analytics technologies and limited reliable power and internet infrastructures. Conclusion: Digitalization of healthcare delivery in developing countries faces several significant challenges. However, the integration of big data analytics can potentially open new avenues for enhancing healthcare delivery with cost-effective benefits.

Keywords: big data analytics; developing countries; health information system; healthcare sector.