The Impact of eHealth Applications In Healthcare Intervention: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Electronic health (eHealth) is the application of information communication technologies across all ranges of functions involved in the practice and delivery of health care. The rapid development of informatics and the Internet do not parallel eHealth interventions, and the knowledge gap needs to be explored. We aimed to identify and review the impact of eHealth applications (apps) on healthcare interventions. Method: We used the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) review protocol and formulated the research question based on PICO (Population or Problem, Interest, Context). The selected databases were Ovid, Web Of Science, PubMed, SAGE and EBSCOhost. Following thorough identification, screening and eligibility evaluation, a total of 10 articles were included in this study. The articles were ranked according to quality with the MMAT (Mixed Method Appraisal Tool). Results: The results were organized according to the benefits and issues among patients and health care workers. Standardized eHealth improved patient health literacy and aided disease self-management. eHealth provided cost-effective measures via online consultation, improved awareness and motivation to comply with treatment and with declaring clinical symptoms. Low socioeconomic status impeded the implementation of eHealth among patients due to the expensive equipment needed to access eHealth material. User-oriented content in eHealth apps was essential for good acceptance among patients. Conclusion: Good implementation of eHealth is an effective alternative for addressing the healthcare needs of society through empowerment. Keywords: eHealth literacy, telemedicine, delivery of health care, information technology, patient

Topics & Concepts