Encouraging the Use of eHealth Services

Abstract

To promote eHealth services effectively, it is important to understand what motivates people to use these services and how they can be further supported. Our aim was to explore user experiences with eHealth services from the viewpoint of patients with chronic illnesses. The survey data included responses from 397 patients actively using eHealth services in Finland. Most of them had positive experiences using the services. We found that these positive experiences and the perceived benefits of eHealth services encouraged patients to continue using the services. In order to bolster the use of eHealth services, patients and other potential users must be informed about the new services and how to access them. Healthcare personnel play a key role in introducing eHealth services to patients and instructing them on their use.