Reference: 2012-013 - Evaluation of the HITnet machines in Aboriginal Medical Services

Researchers: Sharon Clews, Benny Sullivan (Department of Health)

Funding:

Project summary: The HITnet machines have been developed by HITnet, University of Queensland (now a private social enterprise separate to the University) to facilitate communication with hard-to-reach communities (www.hitnet.com.au).

To supply regional and remote locations with interactive sexual health information, the Sexual Health and Blood-borne Virus Program [SHBBVP], Department of Health WA [WA Health], purchased 10 HITnet machines for Aboriginal Health/Medical Services [AMSs] that expressed interest in the technology: Balgo, Broome, Geraldton, Halls Creek, Jigalong, Kalgoorlie, Roebourne, Wiluna, Kununurra, and Kiwirrkura.

As well as purchasing and providing the machines, the SHBBVP continues to provide ongoing maintenance. As a result, the SHBBVP is evaluating the use and relevance of these machines in the AMSs of which they are located.

This evaluation will serve to inform the future provision of the HITnet machines, as well as to identify other effective options at locations where the machines are not being used effectively. The evaluation will also inform the future development of content for the HITnet machines.

Progress: Completed in 2013. Final evaluation report available from: http://www.public.health.wa.gov.au/3/466/2/reports_and_publications.pm