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Patients' experience with a diabetes support programme based on an interactive electronic medical record: qualitative
James D Ralston1, Debra Revere, Lynne S Robins
1Center for Health Studies, Group Health Cooperative, 1730 Minor Avenue, Suite 1600, Seattle, WA 98101-1448, USA. ralston.j@ghc.org
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|May 15, 2004
Summary
Patients with type 2 diabetes valued web based disease management for security and self-management but faced challenges integrating it into daily life. Open access to electronic medical records and clear communication are key for future web based diabetes care programs.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Digital Health
- Diabetes Management
Background:
- Web based disease management programs offer new avenues for patient care.
- Interactive electronic medical records (EMRs) are increasingly integrated into healthcare.
- Understanding patient experiences is crucial for optimizing digital health tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient experiences with type 2 diabetes in a web based disease management program.
- To identify key themes influencing patient engagement and satisfaction with digital health tools.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of semistructured interviews with nine participants aged 45-65.
- Interviews were conducted before and after program use.
- The program included EMR access, secure messaging, glucose monitoring, education, and an online diary.
Main Results:
- Six emergent themes: value of non-acute concerns, enhanced security, unmet expectations, increased self-management ability, value of feedback, and integration challenges.
- Valuing non-acute concerns, feeling secure, and unmet expectations are particularly relevant for web based tool design.
- Patients reported both benefits and difficulties in incorporating the program into daily routines.
Conclusions:
- Patient experiences suggest further investigation into open EMR access and online patient-provider communication.
- Web based diabetes management programs require careful design considering patient needs and expectations.
- Open dialogue between patients and providers about the capabilities and limitations of web based care is essential.