Internet access and usage in patients with chronic respiratory disease

Abstract

Background: Digital technologies provide an opportunity to support the health needs of people living with chronic respiratory disease (CRD). However, there is limited information on digital literacy levels. Aim: To determine day-to-day use of the internet in patients with CRD. Method: A survey of consecutive outpatients attending a general respiratory clinic. Patients with COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis or interstitial lung disease were included. Results: Demographic characteristics: 57 women:40 men; mean age 72.9 (±8.6); 74% with COPD. Most of those surveyed had access to a mobile phone (86%) used primarily for calls and texting; only 8% used their phone to access the internet. Access to other digital devices were more heterogeneous (tablet 31%, laptop 29%, PC 16%). 53% reported feeling not confident or needing help with accessing the internet. 49% accessed the internet daily, primarily to read the news (28%) or use email (26%). Only 10% said they used the internet to access healthcare information. Age and sex were not associated with confidence or frequency of internet use (Figure 1). Conclusion: There is wide variability in accessibility and confidence in using the internet in people with chronic respiratory disease. This needs to be taken into account when designing digital health interventions for this patient group.