A system model for grid computing in hospitals

Abstract

Grid computing is one of the emerging information technologies that allow sharing of important ICT resources including processing power in a given network. Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) is faced with the challenge of inadequate Information Communication Technology (ICT) facilities due to inadequacy of funds since being a public hospital, it depends on government grants. However, the available ICTs are not optimally used. Therefore there is a need to optimize the utilization of the limited available ICT resources. Furthermore, this will also help solve the issue of disposal of ICT equipment which is an environmental concern. The aim of this study was to investigate the optimization of the use of available ICT resources in the hospital with a view to developing a system model for implementing Grid Computing. This will enable the sharing of the limited available ICT resources within the organization. The specific objectives of this study are to: establish the ICT tools and equipment used at MTRH; establish the challenges faced by the hospital in optimizing the use of ICTs; establish the suitability of implementing Grid Computing; design and develop a system model for the implementation of Grid computing in the hospital. The study adopted a layered architecture based model which is used for developing grid computing systems as a guide during system development. Qualitative research approach was adopted for requirements gathering and analysis while experimental approach was used for the prototype development. Eighteen respondents were purposively selected and interviewed from MTRH. The sample was composed of six (6) heads of departments and twelve (12) ICT specialists. They were believed to have crucial and relevant information to this study, since they are the ones involved in decision making and implementation of new technologies. The findings indicated that the hospital had taken a step in using ICTs in dispensing services. However they are faced with the challenge of inadequate ICT facilities and challenges of disposal of ICT equipment. It was also found that sometimes some of the machines were lying idle while others were overworked. The requirements obtained were used for development of a grid computing system model. The study recommends that the hospital implements this ICT solution, which will help it to overcome the challenges of inadequate ICT resources by optimizing the utilization of the available machines for better service delivery. Further, the hospital should develop policy guidelines on sharing resources. The hospital should also train staff on current and relevant ICT skills. This study concludes that there are many benefits that comes with the use of ICTs in modern hospitals. Therefore, MTRH needs to implement new ICTs for them to excel and achieve its goals. Future studies may consider the environmental impact of grid computing since it reduces the number of ICT equipment targeted for disposal.