Understanding attitudes, knowledge, and use of e-health services in the health system in Spain.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand factors that influence the attitude, knowledge, use, and access to e-health services in Spain. We examined the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics of participants and their attitudes toward, knowledge of and use of video-consultation, digital medical records, and experiences with digital devices. We conducted secondary data analysis using information collected by the Health Barometer # 8822 carried out by the Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas. People with a lower level of education and social class, less digital experience, older, and foreign nationality have a low use of digital medical records. Similarly, the attitude and willingness to receive medical care via video-consultation were related to these socio-demographic factors. Thus, the use of e-health services might exacerbate inequity of the health system in Spain. To improve equity related to the e-health services, we recommend implementing a tailored approach supported by educational programs.