The Use of Data from Self-tracking Devices in Preventive Care: An interview study in the healthcare context of living habits

Abstract: Healthcare is facing several upcoming challenges, such as individuals tending to become unhealthier, which is the cause of many chronic diseases and lack of healthcare professionals, resulting in decreased efficiency in healthcare. A shift to preventive healthcare could reverse this trend by focusing on improving the living habits of the population. Internet of Things technology has enabled tools such as self-tracking devices to be used by individuals to monitor their health. There is a great possibility for self-tracking devices to be used in making healthcare more efficient. This study aims at exploring how data from self-tracking devices affect preventive care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals working in the preventive care context. Through the literature review, health data was analysed at three stakeholder levels, which served as a guide through the empirical findings. The key findings highlighted that data affected the methods used in preventive care as well as how healthcare professionals handle data and lack of standards. Moreover, self-tracking devices could be used as a tool for behavioural changes in regard to living habits. Lastly, aggregated health data could be used for better informed decisions and prioritisation of preventive care measures on a public level.