University staff intentions to adopt e-health tools for digital mental health services in post-pandemic South Africa

Abstract

Background: The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) significantly contributed to mental health issues globally, and South African higher education institutions (HEIs) experienced unique stressors, prompting the adoption of e-health tools for digital mental health services (DMHS).

Objectives: The study aimed to determine factors that influence future intention to adopt e-health tools for DMHS based on the experiences of university staff during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa (SA).

Method: A case study research design, complemented by a survey was employed to collect data from 348 respondents using a voluntary response sampling technique from one South African HEI. Data were analysed through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28 and it involved frequency distribution, descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.

Results: The results showed that the perceived usefulness of e-health tools, user experience and satisfaction, post-COVID-19 delivery mode preference and ethical considerations are significant determinants that influence the future adoption of e-health tools for DMHS.

Conclusion: The study provides human resources professionals, university management, mental health practitioners and policymakers with actionable insights into the key determinants of the future adoption of e-health tools for DMHS.

Contribution: Theoretically, the study contributes to the limited body of knowledge on the determinants that influence future intention to adopt e-health tools for DMHS, particularly in the context of university staff experiences during COVID-19 within the South African HE context. Practically, the results provide actionable insights that can be used to inform and guide policy-making within South African HEIs.