Competence-Based Assessment of Biomedical Equipment Management and Maintenance System (e-Upkaran) Using Benefit Evaluation Framework.

Introduction To establish a centralized inventory management system for the efficient functioning of all healthcare facilities, e-Upkaran (equipment management and maintenance system) was launched in 2015 in the state of Rajasthan. This study is conducted to assess the functioning of e-Upkaran in Rajasthan. Methods The assessment of the e-Upkaran system for primary and secondary healthcare centers was carried out using a systematic review of the literature and a multi-indicator stakeholder questionnaire. The benefits evaluation framework focused on the system quality, information and service quality, use and user satisfaction, and net benefits utilized for the assessment. A review of the literature was done to highlight the importance of computerized medical equipment management and maintenance systems and appraise the challenges and benefits associated with such systems as compared to the traditional pen-paper register. Information was gathered based on available documents, field observation, and data obtained from specific hospital staff, including the bioengineers and other users of e-Upkaran. Results The finding of this study suggests that e-Upkaran efficiently improves documentation, reporting, maintenance, and management of medical equipment. It is more efficient than the traditional paper-pen system. It is designed to minimize downtime and maintain equipment in good operating condition and has potential benefits in terms of improving information quality, use, and net benefit. The cost of service ratio is within the benchmark value. This system has also considerably reduced out-of-pocket expenditure. Computer proficiency and the workload of other e-health programs pose a challenge in the implementation of this program. Conclusion The e-Upkaran system is competent in terms of improving information quality, use, and net benefit. Other Indian states could also adopt this system to improve their biomedical equipment management and maintenance system.