Stakeholders' Perception of Digital Payment in a Public Hospital in India

Digital Payment in an Indian Public Hospital

Abstract

Background & Objectives: An important aspect of digital technology is the advent of new payment methods. Digital transformations can impact poverty alleviation, financial inclusion, and resource utilization. India is predominantly a cash-based economy. The government of India has taken several steps to facilitate digital payments, yet most of the financial transactions are cash-based. Methods: We have carried out a study in tertiary care hospitals to understand the factors behind the utilization of digital payment or lack of it. It is a cross- sectional and questionnaire-based study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patients as well as fee collectors. Results: We found variable knowledge about different modes of online payment but many patients are aware of one or the other modality. People tend to use cash more frequently for transactions less than INR 1000. Conclusion: Even though there is awareness regarding digital payment there is a hesitancy in using the digital payment methods and certain factors have been highlighted. There are challenges in the adoption of digital payment in our country. We must take steps to overcome these if we want to reap the purported benefits of digitalization fully.