Digital tools in healthcare have enormous potential, but their adoption is not always a given. Doubts still appear among some patients and healthcare professionals – sometimes justified, sometimes stemming from unfamiliarity with the possibilities and benefits. If we want eHealth solutions to genuinely help, we must recognise these concerns and actively work with them.
When patients hesitate
Some patients may fear that using apps and digital programmes will replace personal contact with the doctor. They may feel they are being “fobbed off” with technology instead of receiving the professional's full attention. This feeling is often stronger among older people or those who are not used to modern technologies.
It is therefore essential to present eHealth programmes as part of care, not as its replacement. The app should be an extension of the doctor's options – another tool that helps monitor the patient's condition, supports their motivation and improves treatment outcomes.
Good practice
- The app is always indicated by a professional (doctor, psychologist, physiotherapist, etc.).
- The purpose, goals and expected benefits of the programme are discussed with the patient.
- eHealth becomes part of every check-up – progress, any problems or low usage are monitored.
- If eHealth is not indicated, it still makes sense to ask the patient whether they already use some digital tool – and if so, advise a more suitable option.
When healthcare professionals hesitate
Healthcare professionals may fear that digitalisation will reduce the quality of care, increase the administrative burden or bring legal risks (e.g. in the area of data protection and liability).
What can help
- Clear recommendations from professional societies – which tools are safe, effective and proven.
- Inspiration from abroad, e.g. the German DiGA system, where certified apps are covered by insurance, or the American Psychiatric Association (APA) app evaluation model.
- Education and training that shows healthcare professionals how to involve digital tools without fear and unnecessary burden.
Why we are not looking for “one app for everyone”
In eHealth there is no universal solution. Just as doctors adapt treatment to the individual patient, they should also choose digital tools according to their needs, abilities and preferences. The goal is a portfolio of verified solutions to choose from.
How Orbiso approaches this
These very principles are the foundation of the Orbiso platform. It enables professionals to create their own programmes in a safe and intuitive environment, easily revise them and adapt them to different patient groups. Thanks to the modular system, education, questionnaires, exercises or value measurements can be added to programmes – always with full control over who sees the content and how it is evaluated.
Orbiso thus helps remove barriers – the patient knows that the digital tool is part of their treatment plan, and the healthcare professional has the assurance that they are working with a safe and proven solution.