Survey: Clinicians Increasingly Comfortable with Digital Health

A recently released survey of clinicians reveals that more and more are accepting of digital health devices and concepts to bring them closer to patients.

The survey, from PricewaterhouseCoopers' (PwC) Health Research Institute (HRI), indicates a changing attitudes among physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician's assistants. HRI surveyed 1,000 clinicians and found that they have begun to share the same attitude with consumers on how digital health can move care from beyond the four walls of the hospital. 

Approximately 42 percent of physicians are comfortable relying on at-home test results to prescribe medication. Half of physicians are of the belief that e-visits could replace a series of in-person visits and just as many are interested with communicating with caregivers online. Seventy-nine percent of physicians believe using mobile devices can help clinicians better coordinate care. A majority of physicians said they would prescribe an app to help patients manage chronic diseases such as diabetes.

"The adoption and integration of digital technology with existing healthcare processes has not yet fulfilled its potential to transform care and value for patients," stated Simon Samaha, M.D. principal at PwC. "The next five years will be critical, with leaders emerging from those who use digital technology to innovate and revamp the interactions between consumers, providers and payers."