Experiences of patients who were early adopters of electronic communication with their physician: satisfaction, benefits, and concerns.

摘要: Objective To explore the experiences of patients who were early adopters e-mail communication with their physicians. Methods Patients' assessed an Internetbased survey 1881 individuals and in-depth telephone follow-up interviews 56 used to communicate providers. Two investigators qualitatively coded interview comments independently, differences adjudicated by group consensus. Results A total 311 (16.5%) reported using electronic mail Compared population-based Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, users physicians twice as likely have a college education, younger, less frequently ethnic minorities, more fair/poor health. Among physicians, most frequent topics results laboratory testing prescription renewals. However, many (21%) also asynchronous inappropriately convey urgent or sensitive issues (suicidality, chest pain, etc). Almost all (95%) perceived that was efficient than telephone. Important benefits uncovered from some felt emboldened ask questions in compared face-to-face doctors, liked ability save messages. Users expressed concerns about privacy. Conclusion Patients use find for disease management. Further patient education inappropriate is needed.