Access and use of communication technologies in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have proven useful to enhance citizens' active involvement in several domains, including healthcare. Despite access to ICT is widespread across Europe, usability of ICT by elderly patients with chronic conditions remains controversial. The research was conducted within the frame of NEXES, an EU project designed to assess extensive deployment of integrated care services supported by an ICT platform (Linkcare©). The study explores current habits/attitudes of COPD patients concerning the use of mobile phones and Internet. Prior to the initiation of the wellness and rehabilitation program in NEXES, we conducted a phone interview to 68 COPD patients (FEV1 P5-P95: 21-74%pred; age P5-P95: 54-78 years) to investigate their attitude towards technology. 41% of the patients use Internet and 91% use mobile phones. 58% of all subjects have internet access at home. The main reason for not using Internet is a poor knowledge on how to use it (76% of non-users). But, 55% of the non-Internet users are interested in learning how to use it. Among the Internet users, 89% have access to e-mail and 46% of them participate in social networks. 62% of patients send SMS's and 15% send files by mobile phones. The use of mobile phones correlates with age (p=0.04) whereas Internet use correlates with educational level (p<0.001), but not with disease severity or aerobic capacity. The percentage of COPD patients using Internet and mobile phone is similar to the general population of the area for the same range of age. Disease severity does not seem to be a factor limiting accessibility and use of ICT tools in COPD patients. Supported by: UE – FP7 (CIP-ICT) 225025.