Identifying factors shaping the behavioural intention of Nepalese youths to adopt digital health tools

Abstract

The digitalization of healthcare has gained global importance, especially post-COVID-19, yet remains a challenge in developing countries due to the slow adoption of digital health tools. This study aims to identify major predictors impacting the behavioural intention of Nepalese youths to adopt digital health tools by utilizing the framework based on the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT-2). The cross-sectional data from 280 respondents was collected from youths (i.e., aged 16-40) in the Kathmandu Valley and were analyzed through PLS-SEM. Most of the respondents were using smartwatches followed by blood pressure monitors and pulse oximeters. The findings revealed hedonic motivation as the strongest predictor of behavioural intention to use digital health tools followed by facilitating conditions, social influence, habit, and performance expectancy. The behavioural intention significantly influenced actual usage behaviour. Additionally, behavioural intention mediated the relationship between the above-mentioned five constructs and usage behaviour, except for effort expectancy and price value. The study emphasizes the role of major predictors such as facilitating conditions in shaping the intention of youths to adopt digital health tools providing insights for government, hospitals, and developers to understand consumer perceptions and motivations.