Use of Instant Messaging Software in a German Hospital-An Exploratory Investigation among Physicians

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Digital Health Communication
• Physician Communication Tools

Background:

• Instant messaging (IM) services are increasingly used by physicians globally for clinical communication.
• Limited data exists on IM usage patterns and attitudes among physicians specifically within Germany.
• Physician communication methods are crucial for efficient healthcare delivery and patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore current instant messaging software usage among physicians in Germany.
• To assess physicians' attitudes towards data security, advantages, and disadvantages of IM in clinical practice.
• To inform the development of a data-secure, in-house messaging platform.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory stakeholder survey was conducted with 70 physicians at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin.
• The survey utilized a questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions.
• Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Instant messaging software use was not widespread among the surveyed physicians.
• Face-to-face contact was the predominant communication method.
• Physicians exchanged an average of up to ten IMs daily, primarily with colleagues for mutual questions and image sharing.
• While aware of privacy concerns, physicians recognized IM's advantages for fast, uncomplicated communication.

Conclusions:

• A need exists for an instant messenger solution that adheres to German data protection guidelines.
• Further investigation into secure IM platforms for clinical use in Germany is warranted.
• Developing compliant communication tools can enhance efficiency and collaboration among physicians.