How Does Information Technology Affect Consumer Health

In overall, based on the literature review, it can be concluded that the use of the information technology and information systems have numerous benefits for the patients. It should be noted that there are significant limitations in assessing the impact of the information technologies and information systems on the promotion of the self-care practices and adoption of the healthy behaviour attitudes and that the further research in the area is required. Similarly, the analysed literature is very limited in scope as only focuses on the certain aspects of the consumer health informatics, as well as on the specific group of the consumers and patients. All four studies raised significant discussion points in regards the use of the information …show more content…
The need for connection signifies much broader issues that merely access to health services, and in that regard, the emotional aspect in designing the technologies should address this concern. Notably the study on adolescence and older women have brought this issue to attention. This could further suggest that these two groups are at health risk. The studies suggest that multifaceted technological development and tools may support and encourage more comprehensive health care. This aspect has two components. First one related to affordability of the health care services, while the second one is somewhat related to the same issue, but from the perspective of the health workers and specialist that are not enough compared to the need for them. Barriers are not fully explored, particularly in regards to the patient's records and …show more content…
Studies suggest the digital divide is based on the income, age, education, health and technological awareness to greater or lesser degree. Thus, the correlation between access to internet and health information seeking is identified. This correlation can also be used as a proxy indicator of the self-care and healthy behaviour tools usage. The study also indicates that the exposure online to the health information is not only through the specialised health and health-related websites, but also through social media. Hence, the question of how the health information should be better disseminated especially for the urban poor is posed. In that regard, the access to fully working and functional technology are crucial, while the digital literacy is in a way inseparable from the health information technologies. Furthermore, there is an indication of the obstacles regarding the technological barriers, especially for those with the medical problem, which results in the situation that although the information and support are available, due to technical issues, they are prevented from accessing and benefiting from the health information and technology. The study also addressed another essential aspect which is a plethora of information that discourages from the further use and