Exploring emerging patient responsibilities in telemedicine use: An empirical study

Abstract

Telemedical solutions are increasingly utilized by physicians to cope with emerging challenges in modern healthcare. Rising numbers of patients due to demographic change and associated health issues complicate the comprehensive provision of care. Digital technologies, such as video consultation tools that establish a virtual connection between patients and practitioners, are able to antagonize these issues to some extent. However, the digitalization of care processes affects patients as well, who are increasingly obliged to be an active part of healthcare by using telemedicine and assessing its applicability and functionality. As a result, patients become more and more responsible for an effective and successful implementation of telemedicine. In that vein, this study proposes preliminary empirical findings and discussion points drawn from an ongoing research project. Findings suggest that responsibilities emerge regarding the preparation of online appointments, decisionmaking, the perpetuation of behavioral patterns, and the prevention of overuse.