Harnessing digital technology to prevent or manage ill health
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Healthwatch England was asked by NHS England to undertake a review of its evidence on how technology can be used to prevent or manage ill health. They analysed 4,067 people's experiences from Healthwatch feedback, Healthwatch reports, a survey about GP referrals and previous national research projects.
Technology can be convenient for managing care.
People like the convenience that technology can provide for managing and treating long term conditions at home, including taking blood pressure readings. These programmes, including virtual wards, work well when people are provided with the technology and knowledge about how to monitor their health.
Digital exclusion and literacy.
With cost of living pressures that make smartphone ownership or home broadband less affordable, not all patients have access to the new technology being introduced in health care services. However, this is often the only option people are provided with for contacting their GP or other services. This excludes a portion of people from accessing care. For those who have the appropriate technologies, online systems for booking appointments and accessing GPs through E-consult are difficult to use. Increased education and easier systems will make this more accessible, allowing people to manage their health more easily.
Education about health prevention.
Patients have a lack of knowledge about health prevention programmes such as screening and vaccinations, which creates a barrier to access. Patient education, both online and in person, about the guidelines and importance of these programmes is necessary.
Technology designed with patient in mind.
Despite the benefits that technology can provide, such as increased access to health care and convenience, technology should be designed with the patient in mind to ensure that it is accessible and appropriate