E-health usage and experiences among physiotherapists in Sweden : a pilot survey

Abstract: Background: The endeavour for more effective and personalised health care requires exploration and implementation of new methods. Digital technology solutions may offer increased accessibility and efficiency and have already been proven to be both time- and cost-effective. Increased knowledge of the use and experience of e-health tools among physiotherapists may lay the ground for further development. Objective: To explore and describe the usage and experiences among Swedish physiotherapists' regarding e-health tools and evaluate which are the most used technologies. Method: A digital survey translated with cross-cultural adaptation was sent out to physiotherapists in Sweden invited to participate through digital platforms. Data were descriptively analysed and presented in tables, box diagrams, and statistical analysis was performed in Jamovi with Fisher's exact test. Results: 111 physiotherapists responded to the digital survey, but only 72 completed all of it because of a technical error. One of the most common digital tools to use was technological communication where 70% used it for their patients. The attitudes towards digital tools were generally positive among the respondents, but about 20% was however neutral in their attitude. No significant relationship was found between the variables dependent on digital tools and professional experience (p = 0.61) or to workplace (p = 0.11), respectively. Conclusion: Swedish physiotherapists in this pilot study have a positive attitude towards digital health tools. However, different tools are used to different extents, and many physiotherapists do not consider themselves dependent on them in their professional life. Further investigation is needed about opinions and experiences in the field of e-health, as well as regarding advantages and disadvantages of digital tools for further development and implementation in the clinics.