Pilotierung und Evaluation einer partizipativen, digitalen Akte für gerontopsychiatrische Patienten und ihre Care-Partner

Background Older patients (with cognitive impairments) frequently rely on relatives, so-called “care partners” (CP), for their healthcare. CPs often lack or have limited access to relevant patient health data, which constrains their ability to provide comprehensive support. Providing CPs with digital access to patients’ electronic records and clinical documentation represents an innovative contribution to addressing this challenge. This paper examines the barriers and opportunities associated with the solution approach. Methods Elderly patients (n = 8) and their CP (n = 8) are provided with online access to medical treatment documentation via a web-based patient portal. Qualitative interviews (n = 16) are conducted to ascertain the experiences of CP users about access. Results Both patients and CPs encounter obstacles and opportunities when using this technology. Contact with healthcare professionals (HCP) s improved and simplified. Patients are less pressured during consultations with HCP, as they can follow up and prepare contacts with HCP via online access. CPs feel more involved in healthcare and relieved. Some older patients were unable to use online access independently due to technical limitations or/and a lack of digital literacy and delegated responsibility to the CP. Discussion CPs play a central role in the digital healthcare of patients. To ensure that older patients also participate as equal partners in their digital health management, it is necessary to develop specific services that support them in developing the necessary digital skills.