The effect of resistance to change on technology acceptance level in medical secretaries: The case of Erzurum province

This study investigates the impact of medical secretaries' resistance to change on their acceptance of new technologies. The research aims to enhance the work efficiency of secretaries who struggle with adapting to technological innovations. As no previous study has directly examined this relationship, the research offers original value to the literature. Data were collected through online and survey questionnaires. A quantitative research design was employed, using descriptive and correlational methods. The study utilized the Technology Acceptance Level Scale by Davis (1989) and the Resistance to Change Scale by Oreg (2006). Reliability analysis yielded Cronbach's Alpha coefficients of 0.690 for the Resistance to Change Scale and 0.963 for the Technology Acceptance Scale, indicating acceptable reliability. The population included medical secretaries from 20 public hospitals in Erzurum, with a sample size of 444 participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21, applying independent sample t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression analyses. The significance level was set at p<0.05. Findings revealed that resistance to change significantly and negatively affects technology acceptance (Beta = -0.383; R² = 0.145). Demographic variables also showed statistically significant effects. Male participants exhibited higher cognitive resistance, while younger individuals had stronger cognitive reactions than older ones. Single individuals showed more resistance, whereas married ones perceived greater technological benefits. Those with postgraduate education showed lower resistance and higher acceptance. Participants with 1–5 years of experience had stronger emotional responses, and those who received in-service training showed higher behavioral engagement. Keywords: Resistance to change, Hospital information system, Technology acceptance level, Medical secretaries.