Are people with epilepsy using eHealth-tools?

Area of Science:

• Epilepsy management
• Digital health interventions
• Patient self-management

Background:

• Self-management is crucial for people with epilepsy (PWE) to improve shared decision-making and treatment adherence.
• eHealth offers a significant avenue for supporting PWE in their self-management journey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore factors monitored by PWE and their methods (pen/paper vs. eHealth).
• To determine computer/smartphone ownership among PWE.
• To understand PWE's perceptions of eHealth use.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method survey was administered to 1000 PWE at a tertiary epilepsy center.
• Questionnaires assessed self-monitoring practices, technology ownership, and eHealth perceptions.

Main Results:

• PWE showed higher self-monitoring rates than other chronic patients but lower technology ownership than the general population.
• eHealth tools were perceived as user-friendly and beneficial for health behavior and adherence, despite low usage.
• Concerns regarding privacy, accessibility, and the emotional impact of confronting their condition were noted disadvantages.

Conclusions:

• A gap exists between PWE's high self-monitoring engagement and their low adoption of eHealth tools.
• A tailored strategy is necessary to encourage eHealth tool utilization among PWE for enhanced self-care.
• Further research should investigate specific PWE needs for effective eHealth integration into self-care.