As a result of the development of digital technologies, patients now have access to a wealth of health information from online resources, the ability to track their own health using wearable technology, telemedicine and other digital channels to interact with healthcare professionals. Consequently, patients are now engaged in their own care [1]
Digital patient care can provide a more complete picture of the patient by combining information from various digital sources, such as wearable technology, electronic health records, and social media [2]
Healthcare professionals can monitor patients in real-time, spot potential issues before they become serious, and take immediate action to avoid complications thanks to advanced digital patient care [3]
This can give medical professionals a more thorough understanding of the patient's health, behaviour, and lifestyle, enabling them to create more individualised and efficient treatments. Patients are much more than just a collection of symptoms thanks to the enormous amounts of biological and other personal data about them that can now be collected, compiled, and analysed [2]
A data-rich environment is being produced as a result of the patients' and healthcare providers' can jointly use digital technologies. A shift from an event-based to a patient-based healthcare paradigm is made possible by the data analysis, management, and protection mechanisms evolving along with the emergent changes[4].
Now that they have access to more data and information, patients are better equipped to take an active role in preventative healthcare. As a result, a patient's complete digital profile, including both medical and non-medical data, can be stored, retrieved, and used at the click of a button for both academic and professional research as well as for commercial exploitation[5].
Overall, the mortal patient has transitioned from the physical world to a virtual and eternal existence through data and evidence by creating a virtual self. They are, however, also more vulnerable as a result of the data's inherent potential for abuse, raising questions about the need for better data privacy and misuse protection[6].
A paradigm shift is also necessary in how the patient is conceptualised, cared for, and managed in order to create a more equitable, safe, and useful data-driven healthcare environment. Concurrent changes to the way healthcare is conceptualised and delivered would also be necessary. The new definition of a patient would change how patients are viewed throughout the healthcare system as a whole and could have a significant impact on how well they live both during and after treatment. In order to more effectively customise their services for each patient they treat, medical service providers would do well to think about the various ways in which their patients may be conceptualised.
1.1 The present conceptualizations of patient, their benefits and limitations
In the medical field, there exists a wide range of patient conceptualizations. Common approaches of patient categorization include the following:
1.2 Patients as passive recipient:
Patients are seen as passive recipients of healthcare services, who put all decision-making authority in the hands of healthcare professionals. Doctors and nurses are seen as the go-to sources of knowledge and care in this framework [7].
The main advantages of this conceptualization were the doctor and the care givers, the people with the best understanding of the situation and its remedy, were taking professional decisions without any emotional biases, which reduced the patient’s anxiety and stress. However, it made patients less engaged, not taking ownership of their own conditions. It could potentially be harmful in case of misunderstandings or other communication gaps between patients and healthcare professionals. Overall, simplifying decision-making and reducing patient stress could also lead to reduced patient autonomy and suboptimal care, and patients may feel ignored, disrespected, or unimportant.
1.3 Patients as active customers:
According to Dhawan (2016)[8], patients are regarded as proactive customers who possess the ability to exercise control over their healthcare choices, and can influence the standard of service provision by expressing their preferences. This concept centres on patient autonomy and self-determination, which confers the benefits of patients assuming an engaged role in preserving their well-being and exercising discretion regarding their medical care through the utilisation of pertinent healthcare providers and interventions. The aforementioned conceptualization promotes the development of "patient-centered care", which stimulates competition among healthcare providers to provide superior treatment and enhance patient contentment, by catering to individual patient requirements and inclinations. The perception of patients as customers may potentially foster greater transparency and efficacy in the communication practises of healthcare professionals. Nonetheless, this viewpoint has the potential to cultivate a customerist approach to healthcare [9], leading to the commodification of healthcare and the preference of financial gains over the well-being of patients. This phenomenon may also result in the stigmatisation of patients for their illnesses or unfavourable health outcomes, leading them to perceive themselves as being responsible for circumstances outside of their purview, thereby eliciting emotions of regret or shame[10]. Likewise, it has the potential to result in unequal healthcare accessibility predicated on financial capacity rather than medical necessity[11]. This conceptualization could potentially facilitate marketing endeavours that are incongruous with the medical field. For instance, the incongruity between demand and supply could be leveraged to augment healthcare expenses, and advertising may disseminate erroneous information to vulnerable patients, leading them to make suboptimal decisions[12]. In general, the prevalent perception of medical professionals as vendors rather than advocates for their patients' health may result in a deterioration of patient-provider trust.
1.4 Patient as an individual:
According to Di Sarsina and Tassinari [13], the individualistic approach regards patients as unique individuals with distinct medical needs and personal preferences. As per this framework, it is imperative to customise medical interventions to suit the unique needs of every patient. The benefits of this conceptualization lie in its emphasis on patient-centered care, which entails the consideration of individual patient attributes, including their values, preferences, and goals. The approach entails considering the entirety of the person rather than solely their ailment, along with their surroundings and standard of living. The conceptualization proposed by Godfrey and co-researchers [14] is conducive to a healthcare experience that is characterised by greater personalization and empathy.
The ability of physicians to perceive patients as distinct individuals enables the implementation of treatment approaches that are tailored to their specific needs. Individuals' responses to treatments, drugs, and therapy may differ based on a multitude of factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and life circumstances. In accordance with findings, medical practitioners can tailor patients' treatment plans to achieve the best possible outcomes while minimising any negative consequences[15]. The provision of adequate time and attention to individuals as unique entities has been found to be positively associated with an increase in patient satisfaction. Under this conceptual framework, there is an increased likelihood of collaboration between medical practitioners and patients in the development of treatment plans. According to Krist et al. (2020)[16], the incorporation of individualised needs and concerns of patients is positively associated with their engagement and adherence to treatment protocols.
According to Berman and Chutka [17], adopting a patient-centered approach in healthcare can facilitate effective communication between physicians and their patients, resulting in more refined diagnoses and improved treatment outcomes. According to Balogh and group of researchers [18], the adoption of a holistic approach enables medical practitioners to take into account the entirety of their patients' life circumstances, which could potentially impact their overall health. According to Vahdat and co-researchers [19], the active involvement of patients in their treatment is more probable when they are approached as individuals with distinct characteristics. Starfield asserts that acknowledging the uniqueness of each patient is crucial in supporting patient-centred care, individualised therapy, open communication, and a holistic approach[20].
The notion of an individualistic approach towards patients may result in overlooking the impact of social and environmental factors on their health condition[21]. Consequently, this may lead to an insufficient comprehension of the patient's health status, which may restrict the focus on medical treatment, resulting in the provision of inadequate or ineffective care. Moreover, it is likely to have an impact on the marginalisation of individuals with specific medical conditions, including mental health and substance use disorders, as suggested by Ahmedani[10]. The individualistic perspective of the patient may lead to inadequate communication, misunderstandings, or suboptimal care, rather than addressing wider social and environmental determinants of health, as noted by Entwistle and Watt[22]. Over-reliance on medications or medical interventions may ensue, rather than addressing the root causes of illness or promoting preventative measures. Patients who are perceived as deviating from the norm may experience discriminatory practises or denial of care within the healthcare system, potentially resulting in legal action against healthcare providers or organisations[23].
In order to ensure the provision of effective and equitable healthcare, it is imperative to take into account a range of factors including but not limited to social, environmental, cultural, and individual differences. Moreover, the patient's individualistic perspective may intensify the insufficiency of privacy safeguard, leading to a higher probability of unauthorised disclosure of protected personal health information. The violation of patient confidentiality may lead to legal consequences for healthcare providers and institutions.
1.5 Influence of digital technologies in healthcare:
The proliferation of digital technologies in healthcare has resulted in a significant increase in patient data generation from various medical and non-medical sources. This data is aggregated at different levels, stored indefinitely, and can be shared and analysed without limitations. The healthcare industry has undergone a significant transformation owing to the advent of digital technologies[2]. These technologies have enabled the provision of more precise medical predictive capabilities, which can effectively prevent emergency conditions[24]. Additionally, personalised treatment options have been made available, which have resulted in superior medical outcomes for individual patients. The implementation of a personalised approach in healthcare can potentially enhance patients' perception of their value within the system[25]. Likewise, digital technologies have the potential to empower patients to take on a more active and engaged role in managing their healthcare. Patient portals provide patients with the ability to access their medical records and engage in communication with their healthcare providers, thereby affording them increased agency over their health information and care-related choices[26]. According to Budd et al. [11], the utilisation of telemedicine can enable remote consultations between healthcare providers and their patients, thereby enhancing convenience and mitigating obstacles to accessing healthcare services. The utilisation of digital technologies has the potential to improve patient safety through the mitigation of errors and the augmentation of accuracy and efficiency in diagnosis and treatment. The implementation of electronic prescribing has been found to be effective in mitigating medication errors, while clinical decision support systems have been shown to aid healthcare providers in making more accurate diagnoses and treatment choices [27].
Nevertheless, the implementation of digital technologies and their utilisation in the healthcare sector also pose noteworthy obstacles. The acquisition of informed consent for the collection and utilisation of patients' data becomes increasingly challenging due to the continuous and discreet tracking of multiple devices. Achieving comprehensive patient notification regarding the risks and benefits of a specific treatment or procedure, as well as involving them in the decision-making process, is a challenging task. According to Hensel and group of researchers[28], healthcare providers or organisations may face legal action as a result.
In general, the utilisation of digital technologies in healthcare can aid in the transition from a passive, customer-oriented healthcare model to a more personalised, patient-centric approach. It is imperative to acknowledge that the utilisation of electronic patient data carries legal ramifications and may result in legal disputes if issues such as patient confidentiality, healthcare accessibility, impartiality, and informed consent are not sufficiently addressed[29][30]. It is imperative for healthcare providers and organisations to guarantee that all patients are provided with lawful and impartial healthcare services[23]. The current conceptualizations of patients are insufficient to effectively address the proliferation of digital technologies in healthcare. Consequently, it is imperative to reassess the manner in which patients are conceptualised and approached by healthcare systems.
1.6 SLR of Existing Concepts on the impact of intrusion of digital technologies in healthcare:
The evolving concept with the intrusion of digital technology will be a culmination of a number of earlier ideas and discoveries. Some of the foundational forerunners of this idea could be studied by conducting SLR( Systematic Literature Study) by PRISMA method.
Systematic literature review (SLR) is a comprehensive and structured approach to identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing relevant research studies to answer specific research questions. In the context of enhancing primary healthcare, an SLR can be used to examine the attributes like patient trust, health literacy, cultural competence, engagement, advocacy, acuity, age, gender, medical history, lifestyle factors, socioeconomic status, ethnicity and culture, self-care, self-efficacy , resilience.
From: Page MJ, McKenzie JE, Bossuyt PM, Boutron I, Hoffmann TC, Mulrow CD, et al. The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ 2021;372:n71. doi: 10.1136/bmj.n71
For more information, visit: http://www.prisma-statement.org/
PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) is a frequently employed guideline for conducting and reporting systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses[31].
The Figure (1.0) represents the PRISMA guidelines in which the method of extraction of the reliable and relevant papers are processed. Initially, based on the inclusion criteria in determining the patient attributes, the study identified 18519 papers from Google scholar, PubMed and Science direct database.. Among those 6366 articles are screened abstract, full articles which are not open accessed i.e., paid ones, clinical experimental and other less and not relevant ones excluded, 1737 articles met the eligibility criteria such as inclusion of patient attributes considered as concepts . Further filtering of the articles based on the precise content extraction i.e., relevance of attributes followed by concepts, articles with associated data, less than 25 years old and with core concepts leads to a total of 30 articles.
1.7 In-depth study of Patient Attributes regarded as Concepts in the light of intrusion of digital technologies:
The characteristics or traits of a person who is getting medical care or attention are called "patient attributes”[32].
1.7.1Patient Engagement -with treatment
According to some, if patient engagement were a drug, it would be the "blockbuster drug of the century"[33] because individuals who are more actively involved in their own treatment have better health outcomes and more satisfying interactions with healthcare providers.
The concept of personalization is discussed, as well as admission, loyalty, and the restorative agreement in "Unravelling the Meaning of Patient Participation" (Higgins, 2017). Patient involvement is the ability and willingness of the patient to choose or take part in the care-giving process for which he or she is best qualified. Other decision-makers, such institutions or healthcare experts, are actively engaged to ensure that the patient receives the best care possible.
A review published in the Journal of Social Science & Medicine[34] found that patient engagement can lead to improved health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and more efficient use of healthcare resources.
A study published in the Wolters Kluwer Health found that patient engagement can be improved through effective communication between patients and healthcare providers[35].
A review published in the BMC Health Services Research found that patient engagement can be improved through the use of technology[36]. The review found that technology can be used to engage patients in their own care by providing access to health information, facilitating communication with healthcare providers, and tracking health outcomes.
Improving health outcomes, patient satisfaction with treatment, cost savings, and even physician experience may all be benefited by effectively including patients in their care.
1.7.2Patient Trust -with healthcare providers:
Trust between patients and their healthcare providers is an essential component of quality medical treatment. When doctors and patients are able to open up to one another and work together, it can only benefit their health[37]. While human interactions have been central to the idea of patient trust, the rise of digital technology holds great promise for improving and reinforcing trust in medical settings[38]. Some examples of how the use of digital tools might increase patients' faith in medical professionals are as follows:
Patients now have convenient access to up-to-date and accurate health information thanks to digital technology[39]. A patient's ability to make well-informed choices regarding their health is greatly enhanced by the availability of educational materials, research papers, and trustworthy health websites via internet platforms[40]. Access to accurate data may improve confidence by encouraging openness and individual choice for patients.
Medical advice, consultations, and even remote monitoring of patients' health status are now within reach thanks to telehealth services. Patients with mobility issues or those living in outlying locations benefit greatly from this accessibility[39]. Patients are more likely to feel safe using digital technology when they have access to healthcare specialists quickly via virtual care choices[41].
Health care practitioners may keep better track of their patients' medical histories, diagnoses, prescriptions, and test results with the use of EHRs (Electronic Health Records) systems[42]. Healthcare providers may now provide more individualised and coordinated services thanks to digital technology that allow for the safe storage and exchange of patient data. Trust and continuity of treatment are fostered when patients know their health records are safely stored and only authorised clinicians have access to them[43].
Patients may monitor vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, or glucose levels, remotely thanks to wearable devices and mobile health apps[3]. These innovations enable real-time monitoring of vital signs, rapid diagnosis of problems, and prompt treatment. Trust and patient participation may be improved via the use of digital health monitoring by giving patients more control over their own treatment[44].
Using digital technology, patients and doctors are able to have private and safe conversations. Patients may communicate with their healthcare teams more effectively via the use of secure messaging systems, patient portals, or mobile applications to ask questions, explain concerns, and obtain rapid replies[45]. Anxiety may be reduced, comprehension can be improved, and the patient-provider connection can be strengthened via effective communication, all of which contribute to the development of trust[46].
Although digital technologies have the potential to increase patients' faith in healthcare providers, their use must be carefully planned to ensure patients' privacy, data security, and equal access. To guarantee efficient and ethical use of new technologies, the integration of digital solutions must be supported by proper education and support for both healthcare personnel and patients[24].
1.7.3Patient Advocacy -to ensure the best care and treatment:
Patient advocacy is an attribute that refers to the promotion and defence of patients' rights and interests. Assisting patients in navigating complicated healthcare systems and advocating on their behalf to ensure they get the best care and treatment available[47].
The introduction of new digital technology may unquestionably enhance patient advocacy. Patient advocacy may benefit from digital technology in a number of ways, including:
A plethora of health-related resources are now readily available to the public thanks to digital technology[11]. Health advocates have access to a wealth of up-to-date knowledge on diseases, therapies, and healthcare systems via a variety of digital tools, including websites and databases[48]. With this information in hand, they will be better able to defend the needs of their patients.
Patients, carers, and advocates are able to more easily communicate and network because to digital platforms including social media, online forums, and patient support groups[49]. Through these mediums, people may come together virtually to debate issues, organise advocacy groups, and share their own personal stories[50]. Patient advocates may utilise these online communities to magnify their messages, attract more attention, and rally more people behind their concerns.
Using digital tools, advocacy campaigns may be planned and carried out with pinpoint accuracy. Social media, email newsletters, and online petitions let supporters interact with legislators, healthcare practitioners, and the general public[51]. Patient advocacy groups can reach more people and do more work because to the convenience of digitally sharing information and organising support[52].
The development of telehealth and telemedicine services has increased patient autonomy and widened the availability of healthcare[53]. Advocates should encourage the use of these digital healthcare platforms to guarantee that all patients, even those in rural locations or with mobility issues, have access to quality medical care[54]. They may lobby for regulatory and financial reforms that would facilitate the broad use of telehealth.
The ability to gather, analyse, and use patient data for advocacy objectives is made possible by digital technology[55]. Access to anonymised data from EHRs, health apps, and wearable devices allows advocates to better understand healthcare delivery patterns, inequities, and opportunities for reform[56]. Advocacy efforts and policy shifts are bolstered by this data-driven strategy.
However, it is essential to make sure that privacy, security, and ethical concerns are taken into account when using digital technology in patient advocacy. Maintaining patient privacy and security while accessing digital resources is crucial for successful patient advocacy[57].
1.7.4Patient Acuity- to provide a patient safe and effective care depending upon condition of the patient:
Indeed, patient acuity is a vital concept in healthcare since it encompasses the degree to which a patient requires special treatment due to the severity of their sickness or damage[58]. Improvements in patient acuity management and health outcomes may be possible with digital technology[38]. Some of how digital technology might help bring about this advancement are as follows.
Predictive Analytics: Algorithms used to analyze vast amounts of patient data, such as EHRs, test findings, and clinical notes, may assist in finding trends and risk factors related to the deterioration of patients' diseases[59]. Providers may intervene and deploy resources before a patient's condition worsens, improving outcomes[60].
Thanks to digital technologies such as telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, it is possible to remotely consult with and monitor patients, particularly those with chronic diseases or who live in distant places. Without physically seeing a patient, doctors and nurses may now evaluate their condition, track their progress, and provide prompt advice or treatment via video conferencing and wearable gadgets[61].
Clinical decision support systems may be built into digital platforms, providing healthcare providers with evidence-based recommendations, alerts, and reminders[62]. When dealing with difficult or emergency cases, these systems are invaluable aids in establishing the correct diagnosis, choosing effective therapies, and maintaining patient care[63].
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) provide simple access to complete patient data by digitally documenting and storing patient health information. Ensuring that all clinicians have access to essential information improves care coordination across healthcare teams and lessens the likelihood of mistakes or delays in information exchange[64].
Technology has greatly improved the ability of healthcare professionals to communicate with one another, collaborate on patient care, and exchange data and ideas for treatment. As a result, patients will get better treatment faster[65].
Opportunities for Patient Education, Empowerment, and Engagement are Available via Digital Platforms. Patients can better understand their illnesses, practice preventative care, and actively participate in treatment using internet materials, mobile apps, and interactive technologies[66].
There is great potential for digital technologies to improve patient acuity management, but only if they are implemented correctly, if privacy and security issues are addressed, and if the digital divide is considered.
1.7.5Health literacy-refers to a patient's ability to understand and act upon health information:
A person's capacity to find, evaluate, use, and exchange health information may be greatly enhanced by the proliferation of digital technology. Several digital technologies may improve the following:
Individuals now have access to an unprecedented wealth of health-related information because to the proliferation of digital technology and, in particular, the internet[67]. Articles, research papers, and databases are just some of the many resources that can be found on websites, online health portals, and mobile apps that may help people get the health information they need[68].
Credibility and trustworthiness of health information may be assessed with the use of digital technology[69]. Users are able to evaluate the credibility of the material they find on the internet because to the inclusion of user evaluations, expert ratings, and citations from scholarly sources. Also, people may assess the veracity of health claims with the use of resources like fact-checking websites and apps[70].
Digital technology may use algorithms and machine learning to tailor suggestions for health care information to the individual. Digital platforms may provide more relevant and valuable information by analysing a user's preferences, browsing history, and health data (with the user's permission and privacy precautions in place, of course)[71].
Physical activity, heart rate, sleep habits, and diet are just some of the health metrics that can be tracked and monitored with the help of today's wearable tech, smartphone applications, and digital health platforms[72]. Individuals may use the information gleaned from these instruments to better understand their health, make educated choices, and discuss any concerns they may have with their healthcare providers[61].
Health information is easily disseminated using digital technologies' social media platforms and online communities[73]. People with comparable health issues may find one other, connect, and learn from and support one another. These mediums enable people to take an active role in discussions about health, promoting interaction and shared knowledge[74].
While advances in digital technology hold enormous promise for enhancing access to and dissemination of health information, they also present some significant obstacles. The requirement for digital literacy skills to navigate and critically assess online material; challenges relating to the accuracy, privacy, and security of personal health data; the digital divide, which may restrict access for some groups; and so on[75].
Improved health outcomes and more participation in healthcare decision-making may result from people being equipped to seek, evaluate, use, and share health information efficiently via the responsible use of digital technology and the promotion of digital literacy[76].
1.7.6Cultural competence-ability to understand and respect the cultural beliefs, values, and practices of their patients:
Intruding digital technology may help healthcare providers become more culturally sensitive, that much is true. Some examples of how digital tools may help people become more culturally competent are as follows.
Healthcare practitioners may benefit from the use of translation applications and software to help them communicate with their patients[77]. Technology like this may assist medical professionals and patients who speak various languages communicate more efficiently and effectively[78].
Easily accessible materials, online courses, and training modules on cultural competence may be made available via digital platforms, facilitating both cultural education and training[79]. By using these resources, medical staff may learn more about other cultures and offer better culturally competent care for their patients.
Patients in rural or hard-to-reach places may now get quality medical treatment, thanks to telehealth platforms and other digital health innovations[80]. This improves access to healthcare for people of all ethnic origins by making it easier for them to get medical treatment.
EHRs, or electronic health records, may contain fields or sections specifically for recording a patient's cultural background[81]. Providers may have a better understanding of their patients' cultural norms, religious views, and dietary preferences in this way.
Patients may benefit greatly from health information portals, which are websites or mobile applications that give relevant health information that takes into account the patient's cultural background[82]. These systems may provide healthcare information in a variety of languages and take into account cultural differences, as well as address unique cultural beliefs and practises that may affect an individual's health[83].
While digital tools may aid in developing cultural competency, they are no substitute for personal interaction. Relationship building, attentive listening, and mutually respectful conversation are all essential parts of care that can't be automated away. Digital resources are not meant to replace in-person communication and knowledge of other cultures, but rather to supplement it.
1.7.7 Self-efficacy- is the patient's belief in their ability to manage their health and well-being:
It is true that interventions to boost patient self-efficacy and encourage adherence to treatments and good lifestyle choices may be made more successful with the use of digital technology. Some examples of how digital tools may help bring about this advancement are as follows:
There is a lot of information regarding medical disorders, treatment alternatives, and healthy living practises that can be found on digital platforms such as websites, mobile apps, and online forums[84]. Patients who believe in their own abilities to improve their health might use these materials to their advantage.
Health metrics including blood pressure, heart rate, physical activity, and medication adherence may be monitored remotely and in real-time by means of digital health instruments like wearables, smart devices, and telehealth systems[85]. Patients may monitor their progress, establish attainable objectives, and get prompt reminders and actionable advice with the help of these real-time feedback tools[86].
Interventions Tailored to Each Person's Specific Needs, Preferences, and Abilities Digital technologies make it possible to tailor interventions to each person's unique set of circumstances. Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms can examine medical records, spot trends, and propose individualised treatments. Patients are more likely to believe in their own abilities to achieve their goals when therapies are tailored to their unique situations[87].
Different kinds of behavioural support and motivation are available via digital interventions. A few examples include prompts, check-ins, goal monitoring, and gamification features. Digital technology may aid people in keeping their motivation high and their sense of self-efficacy strong by giving constant feedback and reinforcement[88].
Improvement of Health-Related Knowledge and Abilities Through the use of digital platforms, patients have access to a wealth of educational resources, interactive modules, and self-management tools. Patients' sense of self-efficacy improves as they have the knowledge, skills, and conviction they need to take control of their health and make positive lifestyle changes[89].
Access to information, personalised therapies, remote monitoring, behavioural support, social engagement, and educational resources are just a few of the ways that digital technologies are improving patients' ability to care for themselves. Healthcare practitioners may encourage patients to stick with prescribed therapies and adopt healthier habits by using these resources.
1.7.8 Resilience-refers to a patient's ability to adapt and cope with difficult or stressful situations, such as illness or injury:
Patients' resiliency may be helped by the use of digital technology. Some of the ways in which digital tools may make people more resilient are as follows:
Digital platforms make it simple for patients to have access to a plethora of information regarding their diagnosis, potential treatments, and methods for self-care[90]. Patients' capacity to manage their health improves when they gain agency via this understanding and the ability to make well-informed choices.
Patients may find people who are going through the same things as them by joining an online support group, forum, or social media community made possible by digital technology. These online communities help by building a sense of community and minimising feelings of loneliness via emotional support, shared experiences, and useful information[91].
More and more apps and wearable tech are being developed to help people keep track of their health and make treatment decisions on the go. Patients may use these aids to keep tabs on their symptoms, make sure they're taking their medications regularly, keep up with their fitness plans, learn to relax, and much more[92]. Patients benefit from a greater feeling of control and self-efficacy when they actively participate in their healthcare via the use of self-management tools.
Patient Education and Training Programmes are greatly aided by the availability of interactive modules, films, and virtual simulations on digital platforms. Technology improves patients' ability to bounce back from health setbacks by helping them learn more about their illness, their treatment options, and how to take charge of their own care[66].
Although digital technology may help patients become more resilient, it is essential to tailor interventions to each person's unique requirements and preferences. Patients' familiarity and skill with digital tools vary widely; hence, it is important to cater to a wide range of users by offering non-technological forms of assistance as well.
1.7.9 Social support-refers to the resources and assistance available to a patient from family, friends, or other community members:
Social support refers to the encouragement and help that patients get from their loved ones and the people in their communities. For those dealing with health issues, social support is essential in fostering happiness, relieving stress, and speeding up the healing process[93].
It's true that advances in digital technology have completely altered the landscape of social assistance for the better. Some ways in which the proliferation of digital technology has improved social assistance are as follows.
Because of advancements in digital technology, it is now simpler for people of all locations to interact with one another. In spite of physical distance, patients now have access to social support networks that enable them to communicate with loved ones and other people in similar situations.
Connecting with others who understand what it's like to deal with a health condition or be a patient may be a huge help, therefore many people have turned to online support networks. For people who cannot physically attend a support group, these online communities may provide the same feeling of community and understanding[94].
Digital technologies allow for remote healthcare services like telemedicine, where patients may speak with doctors from the convenience of their own homes. This not only helps patients with restricted mobility by making medical advice more accessible, but it also increases access overall[92]. Wearables and home monitoring systems are only two examples of remote monitoring technologies that may send vital signs and other information in real time to doctors[3].
Counselling and therapy sessions may now be done remotely via the use of digital platforms, giving people greater access to these services. When in-person contacts are impractical or impossible, patients still have the option of receiving mental health care via video calls or chat-based therapy sessions[95].
Access to a wealth of health-related information and instructional materials is made possible by digital technology for patients and their caregiving communities[96]. In order to better understand and manage health issues, patients and their support systems may benefit from access to reputable medical information, self-help tools, and instructional resources available on online platforms, websites, and mobile apps[2].
Although digital technologies may improve social support, they should not be used in lieu of more conventional methods of assistance. The value and irreplaceability of in-person communication and the presence of loved ones has not diminished with the advent of modern technology. Finding a happy medium between online and offline resources is crucial for a well-rounded support infrastructure.
1.7.10 Self-management-there is a growing interest in the function of self-management' interventions to support the management of chronic condition:
Social support refers to the encouragement and help that patients get from their loved ones and the people in their communities. For those dealing with health issues, social support is essential in fostering happiness, relieving stress, and speeding up the healing process[97].
It's true that advances in digital technology have completely altered the landscape of social assistance for the better. Some ways in which the proliferation of digital technology has improved social assistance are as follows.
Because of advancements in digital technology, it is now simpler for people of all locations to interact with one another. In spite of physical distance, patients now have access to social support networks that enable them to communicate with loved ones and other people in similar situations[98].
Connecting with others who understand what it's like to deal with a health condition or be a patient may be a huge help, therefore many people have turned to online support networks[99]. For people who cannot physically attend a support group, these online communities may provide the same feeling of community and understanding[100].
Counselling and therapy sessions may now be done remotely via the use of digital platforms, giving people greater access to these services. When in-person contacts are impractical or impossible, patients still have the option of receiving mental health care via video calls or chat-based therapy sessions[101].
Access to a wealth of health-related information and instructional materials is made possible by digital technology for patients and their caregiving communities[102]. In order to better understand and manage health issues, patients and their support systems may benefit from access to reputable medical information, self-help tools, and instructional resources available on online platforms, websites, and mobile apps[103].
Although digital technologies may improve social support, they should not be used in lieu of more conventional methods of assistance. The value and irreplaceability of in-person communication and the presence of loved ones has not diminished with the advent of modern technology. Finding a happy medium between online and offline resources is crucial for a well-rounded support infrastructure.
1.8 Research Gaps:
Digital technology's introduction has shown promise in enhancing personal care interventions, but there are still many unanswered questions about its impact on such factors as engagement, trust, acuity, advocacy, self-management, self-efficacy, resilience, health literacy, cultural competence, and social support. Key areas in which further study is required include as follows.
It is important to investigate how digital technologies might encourage people to take an active role in their own self-care. One aspect of this is learning what makes for consistent interest, such as the role of individualization, community, and interactivity[104]. Different engagement tactics may have varying effects on health outcomes and behavioural change, which might be investigated.
Concerns about data security, privacy, and the veracity of information are just some of the areas where faith in digital technology is called into doubt. The development and maintenance of trust in digital self-management interventions is an area that needs more study[105]. It's crucial to examine how people's faith in these innovations affects their propensity to use them and follow expert advice[105].
1.8.1Engagement:
More study is required to determine what variables influence user engagement in digital self-management treatments. Exploring what aspects of design, functionalities, and user experience lead to increased engagement and continued usage of these technologies is an important part of this process[106].
1.8.2Trust:
Users of digital technology are increasingly expected to participate in remote interactions with healthcare experts, frequently requiring them to disclose sensitive health information. The influence of trust on user involvement and health outcomes, as well as data security, privacy regulations, openness, and other aspects, require more investigation[107].
1.8.3Acuity:
The degree to which a person is able to comprehend and make use of digitally delivered health information. Readability, clear language, multimedia material, and interactive elements that help understanding and decision-making are only some of the aspects of digital treatments that might be studied to improve health literacy and acuity[76].
1.8.4Advocacy:
Researching how digital tools might help patients advocate for themselves is essential. Understanding how these resources might help people advocate for their own healthcare needs, get the help they need, and find their way through complicated healthcare systems could be the subject of future study[49].
1.8.5Self-management:
More study is required to evaluate the efficacy of digital technologies in enhancing self-management behaviours and results, however they do provide a variety of instruments for self-management. Examining how digital interventions affect medication compliance, lifestyle changes, symptom management, and quality of life is an important part of this[108].
1.8.6Self-efficacy:
More studies are needed to understand further how digital technology might improve self-efficacy—a person's confidence in their capacity to deal with a health problem. Self-efficacy and individual agency may be fostered via the use of digital platform characteristics including goal-setting, feedback, social support, and individualised treatments, which might be the subject of future research[109].
1.8.7 Resilience:
Studying how digital treatments improve resilience in people with chronic diseases is an important area for future study. As part of this process, we may look at how the use of technology might improve resiliency, emotional health, stress management, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms[110].
1.8.9Health Literacy:
Research is needed to determine the efficacy of digital technology in various groups, including those with variable degrees of health literacy, in order to increase health literacy. In order to guarantee that digital interventions are accessible to and understandable by a wide range of people, their usability, accessibility, and comprehension must be assessed[111].
1.8.10Social Support:
Additional study is needed on how digital technology might help facilitate social support networks for people with chronic diseases. The effects of digital interventions on social connection, emotional well-being, and self-management behaviours might be studied. This includes looking at how digital treatments can encourage peer support, online communities, and virtual support groups[112].
If these knowledge gaps are filled, digital self-management treatments will be able to progress, technology-driven solutions will be better designed and implemented, and health outcomes for people living with chronic diseases will improve.
1.9 Impact of Adoption Intention of digital health to address the research gap of existing concepts:
Multiple knowledge gaps in the areas of trust, advocacy, engagement, acuity, resilience, social support, self-management, self-efficacy, and health literacy may be filled by the adoption purpose of digital health. These are the voids it can fill:
1.9.1Trust:
Digital health solutions may increase trust by safeguarding individuals' health data, delivering open and dependable data, and keeping lines of communication open between doctors and their patients. Understanding the elements that affect trust in digital health and creating measures to increase trustworthiness might be the subject of research[113].
1.9.2Advocacy:
People may become their own health advocates with the help of digital health, which can provide them with the knowledge, resources, and data they need to make educated choices. Health advocacy, patient involvement, and the amplification of patient voices are all areas where further study might benefit from the use of digital platforms[114].
1.9.3 Self-monitoring:
Interactive and personalised experiences, easier self-monitoring, and more opportunities for active involvement in care management are just a few ways in which digital health treatments have the potential to increase patient engagement[92]. The influence of patient participation in digital health treatments on health outcomes may be better understood with the help of research on the best methods for doing so.
1.9.4Acuity:
Healthcare acuity is enhanced by digital health technology like wearables and remote monitoring systems, which allow for earlier diagnosis and tracking of health issues. In order to assure the efficacy of digital health technologies in improving acuity, research might concentrate on analysing their accuracy, dependability, and usability[38].
1.9.5Resilience:
The use of digital health treatments may help people become more resilient by giving them access to stress management tools, self-help courses, and other mental health resources. Evidence-based techniques to improve mental health may be developed, and the potential of digital treatments to foster resilience can be investigated[115].
1.9.6 Social support:
Peer-to-peer assistance, online groups, and the linking of people with similar health issues are all ways in which digital health may promote social support networks. The efficacy of digital platforms as social support providers may be studied, the dynamics of virtual support networks analysed, and methods developed to improve online social support[116].
1.9.7 Self-management:
Individual empowerment via self-monitoring, medication reminders, goal-setting, and behaviour tracking is made possible by digital health solutions. Self-management training, treatment adherence, and the encouragement of healthy lifestyle choices are all areas where research may be directed[117].
1.9.8Self-efficacy:
By providing people with tailored feedback, coaching, and learning materials, digital health treatments may help boost self-efficacy. Self-efficacy may be improved with the use of digital health platforms, and studies can examine the influence of digital treatments on this construct[118].
1.9.9Health Literacy:
By providing health information in a format that is easy to understand and engage with, digital health has the potential to narrow the health literacy gap. Research might concentrate on enhancing usability of interfaces, measuring the impact of digital interventions on health literacy, and adapting programmes to the unique requirements of various groups[2].
In summary research gaps in trust, advocacy, engagement, acuity, resilience, social support, self-management, self-efficacy, and health literacy may be filled by the purpose to embrace digital health. Digital health treatments may be optimised to target these areas, leading to better health outcomes and patient experiences, with the right amount of research and development.