Patient perceptions of eHealth interventions in surgery-A multi-method study
File(s)
Author(s)
Ho, Chik Wai
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Introduction
eHealth plays a pivotal role in modern healthcare, providing patients with greater access to information, new methods of receiving care, and enhanced communication with healthcare providers. The way individuals perceive eHealth is influenced by demographic factors, life experiences, and cultural beliefs, all of which shape motivations and potential barriers to adoption. Understanding these key factors is essential for improving the uptake and acceptance of eHealth.
Aims
The principle aims of this thesis were to:
1. evaluate surgical patients' internet usage patterns, eHealth experiences, and preferences
2. assess the impact of eHealth literacy and individual patient factors on eHealth acceptance
3. explore the perceptions of patients and clinicians regarding eHealth technologies
4. identify key enablers and barriers to eHealth implementation
Methods
The following methods were used:
1. a systematic review
2. a patient survey assessing eHealth literacy and technology use
3. focus groups with surgical patients
4. in-depth interviews with clinicians
Results
Surgical patients are increasingly engaged with digital technologies but primarily for basic tasks. Higher eHealth literacy is associated with greater acceptance of digital health tools, yet significant disparities remain, particularly among older patients and those with lower educational attainment. Patients valued eHealth for empowerment and convenience but expressed concerns about accessibility, digital literacy, and privacy. Clinicians recognised the potential of eHealth but highlighted challenges related to IT infrastructure, integration into clinical workflows, and the need for clear implementation strategies.
Conclusion
Understanding patient factors and customising eHealth implementation and support are essential for its utilisation and acceptance. Enhancing clinician involvement and tackling infrastructure barriers are vital for optimising eHealth implementation in surgical care.
eHealth plays a pivotal role in modern healthcare, providing patients with greater access to information, new methods of receiving care, and enhanced communication with healthcare providers. The way individuals perceive eHealth is influenced by demographic factors, life experiences, and cultural beliefs, all of which shape motivations and potential barriers to adoption. Understanding these key factors is essential for improving the uptake and acceptance of eHealth.
Aims
The principle aims of this thesis were to:
1. evaluate surgical patients' internet usage patterns, eHealth experiences, and preferences
2. assess the impact of eHealth literacy and individual patient factors on eHealth acceptance
3. explore the perceptions of patients and clinicians regarding eHealth technologies
4. identify key enablers and barriers to eHealth implementation
Methods
The following methods were used:
1. a systematic review
2. a patient survey assessing eHealth literacy and technology use
3. focus groups with surgical patients
4. in-depth interviews with clinicians
Results
Surgical patients are increasingly engaged with digital technologies but primarily for basic tasks. Higher eHealth literacy is associated with greater acceptance of digital health tools, yet significant disparities remain, particularly among older patients and those with lower educational attainment. Patients valued eHealth for empowerment and convenience but expressed concerns about accessibility, digital literacy, and privacy. Clinicians recognised the potential of eHealth but highlighted challenges related to IT infrastructure, integration into clinical workflows, and the need for clear implementation strategies.
Conclusion
Understanding patient factors and customising eHealth implementation and support are essential for its utilisation and acceptance. Enhancing clinician involvement and tackling infrastructure barriers are vital for optimising eHealth implementation in surgical care.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2025-02-03
Date Awarded
01/01/2026
License URL
Advisor
Darzi, Ara
Archer, Stephanie
Carrington, Emma
Publisher Department
Department of Surgery & Cancer
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Medicine (Research) MD (Res)