Factors Affecting the Usage of Sehhaty Telehealth Services Among Young Adults in Riyadh

Abstract

Introduction:

Telehealth platforms, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have significantly enhanced healthcare access worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, Sehhaty has emerged as a key digital health tool; however, user engagement among young adults remains inconsistent, potentially due to trust issues, usability challenges, and interoperability barriers.

Objectives:

This study aims to assess the influence of trust, perceived usefulness, ease of use, satisfaction, and system interoperability on young adults’ behavioral intention to use Sehhaty in Riyadh, using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical framework.

Method:

A cross-sectional survey was distributed online to Saudi residents aged 18–35 in Riyadh. A total of 314 responses were collected using convenience sampling. The survey included 30 Likert-scale items validated through previous TAM-based studies. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach’s Alpha, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression.

Results:

All constructs showed good internal consistency (α > 0.75), and perceived usefulness (β = 0.75, p < 0.001) was the strongest predictor of behavioral intention, followed by ease of use and trust. Interoperability showed a moderate to low correlation with satisfaction (r = 0.40), and open-ended responses highlighted lack of integration with other public and private hospital systems as a common concern.

Conclusion:

While young users view Sehhaty positively overall, improving system interoperability and maintaining ease of use may significantly boost adoption. Findings highlight the importance of user-centered and integrated digital health strategies.