Underestimated Factors Regarding Using Technology in Daily Practice of Long-Term Care From a Healthcare Professional’s Perspective: a Qualitative Study.
ABSTRACT
Background:
The increase in life expectancy results in a growing demand for care, however there is a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals (HCPs) to deliver this care. If used optimally, technology can provide a solution to this challenge. HCPs play an essential role in the use and implementation of technology in healthcare. However, the actual adoption of technology is relatively low. To fully understand their viewpoint, it is important to focus on the perspectives of HCPs regarding the uptake of technology.
Objective:
The aim of the present study is to identify factors regarded relevant by HCP in working with technology in direct patient care.
Methods:
In this qualitative study, 11 focus groups were organized with 73 HCPs. The focus-group discussions were guided by an innovative game, which was specifically developed for this study. The content of the game was categorized into four categories: 1) Healthcare technology and me; 2) Healthcare technology, the patient and me; 3) Healthcare technology, the organization and me, and 4) Facilitating conditions. The perspectives of HCPs on working with technology were discussed based on this game. The focus groups were recorded and transcribed. Three researchers conducted an inductive thematic analysis using Atlas.ti 9x
Results:
Two main themes emerged from the analysis: 1) Technology should improve quality of care and 2) Working with technology in care. The first indicates the need for tailored and personalized care and the balance needed between human contact and technology. The second addresses several aspects regarding working with technology such as trusting technology, learning to work with technology and collaboration with colleagues. All themes related to either the use of technology by a professional in relation to their patients, team or the organization whereby the context should be considered.
Conclusions:
HCPs are motivated to use technology in patient care when it adds value to quality of care and there is sufficient trust, expertise and collaboration with colleagues to use it in daily practice. Their perspectives need to be considered as they play a crucial part in the successful use of technology, transcending their role as an ‘actor’ in implementation. Based on the findings in this study we recommend to: redefine the roles of HCPs and the impact of technology hereon, involve HCPs in the design process of technology to enable them to link it to their daily practice, focus on developing technology for situations where both efficiency and quality of care are improved and to create forerunners in care teams who are enthusiastic about working with technology and can support their colleagues.
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