The Experiences of Three Different User Groups Using Personally Controlled Health Record for Multidisciplinary Care Team

Abstract

Personally Controlled Health Records (PCHR) are patient-centric tools which allow individuals to own, manage, access and share their health information online from anywhere, at any time. Patient-centric tools have received considerable interest and investment in recent years worldwide. These tools are thought to have the potential to increase individuals’ self-management and involvement in their own health, as well as improve healthcare efficiency and delivery. The aim of this study is to report and analyse the experiences of three different user groups using PCHR for Multidisciplinary Care Team (MDCT) including the advantages, disadvantages, barriers and obstacles, and the current state of PCHR. In order to achieve the aim of this study, sixteen interviews with key informants from three different user groups were conducted in Dunedin, New Zealand. Interviews were transcribed and analysed with thematic analysis. The key findings of this research showed that those who can benefit the most from PCHRs are the least able to use it. It suits those who have basic knowledge about computers and the internet and those who can afford to use them. PCHR is also best suited for individuals who are motivated about their health despite their health condition. However, more research is needed in the future with a larger sample, an easier to use PCHR, different population other than community health workers, patients with different chronic illnesses, and healthy patients. This research can be used as a basis and tested in future research on PCHR adoption.