A Survey of Patient’s Perceptions and Proposed Provision of a ‘Patient Portal’ in Endocrine Outpatients

INTRODUCTION: Patient portals are online electronic medical record applications that allow patients greater control of their own health and encourage meaningful interaction with their healthcare providers. The uptake of this technology is commonplace throughout developed healthcare economies and is on the Northern Ireland Electronic Healthcare Record (NIECR) roadmap. AIM: To assess patients’ perceptions and proposed provision of a patient portal in endocrinology outpatients. METHODS: Patients (n=75) attending three endocrinology outpatient clinics were eligible to participate. After discussion at clinic, invited patients were contacted via e-mail to complete a confidential and anonymised online survey. There were a total of 23 questions in the survey which included a mix of free text and categorical responses. The survey duration was conducted over a 6-month period. RESULTS: The survey response rate was 51/75 (68%), M33:F18. 46/51 (90%) had access to smart phones, 45/51 (88%) used the internet daily. 31/51 (60%) of respondents were aged between 18-45, 20/51 (40%) were aged ≥ 45 years. 50/51 (98%) reported they would use the technology if available. 47/51 (92%) felt engaging with a patient portal would enhance communication with their doctor and improve understanding of their medical issues. Reported perceived applications of use included; remote access and advice for test results and medical questions, arranging appointments, requesting prescriptions and health promotion. 90% of respondents said they would be content to access results even if abnormal. Possible barriers to adoption of this technology included data protection and understanding medical terminology. CONCLUSIONS: The overall response to the provision of this technology was positive, although concerns regarding data protection remain prevalent. Perceived benefits included enhanced doctor-patient communication, optimizing workflow and improving patient engagement.