Patient-physician e-mail: passion or fashion?

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Health Informatics
• Medical Communication

Background:

• Patient-physician email use is increasing across various clinical domains.
• Early evidence suggests patient-physician email has potential for sustained use.
• The adoption of internet technologies influences medical communication methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey the nature, prevalence, risks, and benefits of patient-physician email.
• To evaluate the requirements for patient-physician email to become a transformational technology.
• To appraise the efficacy of patient-physician email in diverse contexts and user groups.

Main Methods:

• Consultation of diverse materials from popular press and clinical domains.
• Appraisal of patient-physician email efficacy across different contexts.
• Analysis of user (patient and physician) experiences with email communication.

Main Results:

• Patient-physician email shows potential through niche applications and unsolicited patient use.
• Historical medical technology adoption patterns and general internet use support its longevity.
• Efficacy varies based on context and user demographics.

Conclusions:

• Patient-physician email can be transformational if it enhances encounters, improves outcomes, and increases convenience.
• Addressing reimbursement and medicolegal issues is crucial for widespread adoption.
• Effective use and responsible implementation will determine the realization of its potential.