The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. eHealth (electronic health) presents opportunities to alleviate pressure in healthcare, for example by empowering patients to take more control over... Show moreThe healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. eHealth (electronic health) presents opportunities to alleviate pressure in healthcare, for example by empowering patients to take more control over their care. This thesis has examined various digital applications that have already been (partially) implemented. The research primarily focuses on the user-friendliness and effectiveness of these digital applications, aiming to promote self-management and accessibility of healthcare. The digital applications in this thesis relate to requesting diagnostic tests, both with and without involvement of healthcare professionals. Diagnostic tests enable the detection of conditions, such as sexually transmitted diseases for instance. Additionally, research has been conducted on the effectiveness of a self-management program for asthma and COPD. The results generally indicate that patients and citizens, particularly the younger generation, are receptive to online applications aimed at supporting their self-management of health and illness. Nevertheless, certain factors influence their acceptance, such as reliability and user-friendliness. Therefore, it is essential to promote collaboration among all stakeholders to enhance usability and ensure that online applications effectively meet their intended purpose and objectives. Show less
There is an increasing number of adults who suffer from cardiovascular diseases (CVD). These patients would benefit from a healthy lifestyle, as this improves the prognosis of CVD. However, even... Show moreThere is an increasing number of adults who suffer from cardiovascular diseases (CVD). These patients would benefit from a healthy lifestyle, as this improves the prognosis of CVD. However, even though improving one’s health and lifestyle is the focus of cardiac rehabilitation, CVD patients need support to also maintain a healthy lifestyle after their rehabilitation has ended. Even though the support of a healthcare professional seems to be an important factor in successful lifestyle change, there are barriers that hinder professionals from providing lifestyle support, such as a lack of time or expertise. Since the involvement of healthcare professionals is also not always possible or desirable, it is important to further investigate possibilities to provide patients with a self-help eHealth intervention. In such self-help eHealth interventions, feedback is automatically provided, making the interference of a healthcare professional no longer needed. However, self-help eHealth interventions can suffer from a low uptake and a low level of adherence. This PhD dissertation therefore focuses on (1) mapping out the needs and wishes of both healthcare professionals and CVD patients with regard to (human-supported and self-help) eHealth lifestyle interventions, and (2) investigating if and how self-help eHealth lifestyle interventions could be optimised. Show less
The Dutch healthcare system is facing multiple challenges which have put a strain on the healthcare system in terms of finances and workforce shortages. eHealth offers innovative and promising ways... Show moreThe Dutch healthcare system is facing multiple challenges which have put a strain on the healthcare system in terms of finances and workforce shortages. eHealth offers innovative and promising ways of providing healthcare, including remote and digital care. However, despite the potential of eHealth to transform healthcare and improve patient outcomes, its wide-spread adoption and implementation have been limited. One major obstacle is limited usage, often due to the insufficient engagement of end-users, including patients, in the early design phase. The dissertation underscores the importance of participatory design to actively involve users. Another challenge is the short-term usage of eHealth applications, often a result of inadequate user engagement. The integration of "Persuasive games," incorporating game elements to promote behavioural change, is suggested to enhance engagement and encourage sustained use. The digital divide presents a third challenge, affecting specific user groups like those with limited (e)health literacy. Bridging this gap necessitates not only access to digital technologies but also promoting ehealth literacy and involving users in eHealth development. Moreover, a lack of evidence on the effectiveness of eHealth interventions impedes widespread acceptance. Traditional research designs, like randomized clinical studies, often overlook the complexity of intervention contexts. The dissertation seeks to address these challenges through practical research projects, emphasizing participatory design, evaluating effectiveness in real-world settings, translating and assessing the eHealth Literacy questionnaire, and creating tools for effective knowledge transfer. Advocating for early end-user engagement and a critical review of existing research paradigms, the dissertation offers valuable insights for overcoming challenges and advancing eHealth for improved patient and healthcare outcomes. Show less
