A Systematic Review of Patient Acceptance of Consumer Health Information Technology

In this article a systematic literature review was performed to identify variables promoting consumer health information technology (CHIT) acceptance, or barriers in acceptance of CHIT among patients.

Background

consumer health information technologies (CHITs) are defined as computer-based systems that are designed to facilitate information access and exchange, enhance decision making, provide social and emotional support, and help behavior changes that promote health and well-being. While the potential for using CHITs to improve health care has been acknowledged, these technologies are still not always accepted by patients for variety of reasons, including poor device usability, insufficient training on how to use the technology, lack of computer skills, and low self-efficacy. There is a considerable body of research testing the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of various CHITs for primary health care service delivery, in general, or patient self-care at home, in particular.