Title:	PROVIDING PATIENTS ONLINE ACCESS TO THEIR LIVE TEST RESULTS: AN EVALUATION OF USAGE AND USEFULNESS
Author(s):	Felix Mukoro, Grace Sweeney, Beverley Mathews
ISBN:	978-972-8939-70-0
Editors:	Mário Macedo
Year:	2012
Edition:	Single
Keywords:	Electronic Health Records; Patient Empowerment; Self Care; Patient safety
Type:	Full Paper
First Page:	45
Last Page:	52
Language:	English
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Full Contents:	click to dowload
Paper Abstract:	Background: A system which enables patients with long term conditions to access their live test results online may lead to better self-management and improved health. Renal PatientView (RPV) is an internet based system that provides kidney patients with secure access to their live test results. The system also offers an online discussion forum, and tools to help patients add self initiated data such as blood pressure, glucose and weight readings to their live test records. Purpose: This study aims to; (a) assess the usage and usefulness of RPV to patients and healthcare professionals, and (b) examine its impact on self care motivation, and quality of patient care/care planning. Design: Online survey of 507 registered users of RPV in 10 kidney units in England. Data on value of RPV, pattern of use, perceived benefits, and demographic characteristics of respondents were collected and analyzed using descriptive frequency tables and charts. Findings: A total of 257 (50%) invited patients completed the user survey. The majority (70%) of patients were between 26 to 65 years old, with the highest proportion (39%) in the 51 to 65 year age group. Most patients (71%) have been using RPV for more than one year. Nearly all users agreed they were more likely to use RPV when expecting the results of a recent test (97% “Agree” or “Strongly agree”). Respondents were very positive in their opinion about the empowering outcomes of using RPV and agreed that using RPV makes patients feel more in control of their medical care (88%); gives patients a better understanding of their kidney disease (86% ); helps patients find it easier to communicate with their healthcare team (79%); makes patients more prepared for hospital visits (69% ); reassures patients about their treatment (77% ); and helps patients to be more involved in decisions about their care (75%). Only a few of the respondents believed that using the system makes patients worry (14% agreed). Conclusion: Patients’ attitudes about the use of a system designed to help patients with kidney disease access their live test results online were mostly positive. Patients found the system very valuable. A minority of patients was concerned that using the system makes their lab results confusing or makes them worry. Relevance: This study offers insight into the value of a system designed to help patients with kidney disease access their live test results online, and its impact on their participation in decision making and capacity to self-care.
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