Improving healthcare through digital connection? Findings from a qualitative study about patient portals in New Zealand
Phoebe Elers A B and Frances Nelson A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Auckland University of Technology, School of Communication Studies, WG Building, City Campus, Governor Fitzroy Place, City Campus, Auckland City, 1010, New Zealand.
B Corresponding author. Email: phoebe.elers@gmail.com
Australian Journal of Primary Health 24(5) 404-408 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY17116
Submitted: 24 August 2017 Accepted: 3 May 2018 Published: 28 August 2018
Abstract
Research has shown that patient portals can improve patient–provider communication and patient satisfaction. Yet few studies have examined patient portals in New Zealand. In this study, GPs from nine primary care practices were interviewed using a semi-structured interview technique to ascertain how they thought patient portals influence the delivery of primary healthcare. The interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed. The three themes detected were: patient portal usage, health information seeking and the changing consultation. Although most of the participants indicated that patient portals are not being effectively utilised, they were optimistic about the role of information technology in primary healthcare for providing accurate information and to connect with patients in modern terms. Participants reported that some patients have become more informed and compliant with medical treatments and interventions after using patient portals. It seems that patient portals have the potential to enhance patient–provider relationships and help patients manage more aspects of their health care.
Additional keywords: ehealth, clinical information systems, primary health care, qualitative research.
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