Analysis of patient preferences on patient-provider interactions through the OpenNotes online portal in dermatology

Abstract Background : Many medical centers are beginning to utilize OpenNotes to empower patients. However, there is a lack of literature reviewing the OpenNotes system in dermatology and any differences in attitudes between men and women. If so, it is uncertain what concerns are more important to women patients. Given the complex lexicon of notes in dermatology, the outpatient setting of dermatology practices, and the often-complex nature of treatment regimens, investigation was merited. Objective : This paper is aimed at the evaluation of a survey on dermatologic patients on their attitudes towards the OpenNotes system. Methods : From July through October 2015, 333 dermatologic patients at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center completed an anonymous, voluntary 25-question survey of the OpenNotes system while in the waiting room. Approximately 60% of respondents were female and 40% were male. Respondents were older with 27% over the age of 65, 21% between ages 56-64, 16% between 46-55, 17% between 36-45, 14% between 26-35, and 4% between the age of 18-25. 85% of respondents were white and 73%, at minimum, graduated college. Results and Conclusion : Patient response to OpenNotes was positive. 93% agreed that it is a good idea and, of those that accessed their own notes (69% of respondents), 99.6% desired continued access. 85.6% felt it allowed them to control their own health and 70% reported an increased confidence of their dermatologist. 19% of respondents thought OpenNotes presented a privacy concern. The results showed that female patients strongly desire access to their medical records, but that concerns about privacy and security exist. Preliminary analysis by a statistician did not find any statistically significant variations between men and women within the results of the survey. Due to the wide agreement in responses, it is unlikely that there are significant differences in opinion on OpenNotes between men and women.