Rethinking Patient Empowerment through Online Patient Portals for Managing Diabetes and Hypertension in Ghana

Roger A. Atinga, Anita Asiwome Adzo Baku

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Patient portals foster better therapeutic relations between the patient and provider, increases medication adherence, and leads to optimal patient flow. However, the extent to which patient portals are linked to patient empowerment is less explicit. This study explored whether and how the characteristics of online patient portals are associated with the empowerment of diabetes and hypertension patients. We employed a quantitative design, drawing data from 280 patients across six health facilities. Data were analyzed using principal component analysis and multivariate regression. The findings showed that patients preferred the use of an online portal to communicate medication information, schedule appointment and visit, discuss treatment plans, and access information about medical results. All the patient portal characteristics examined showed a statistically significant association with patient empowerment. The findings suggest the need for rolling outpatient portal systems to enable patients with chronic conditions to control their condition and management. Target Audience The primary target audience of this work is policymakers and health system stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, and the Christian Health Association of Ghana. These institutions can use the study’s finding to roll out online patient portal systems in public and quasi health facilities. In addition, clinicians such as doctors, nurses, and other clinical cadres can use findings of the study to improve upon clinical practice. Finally, students pursuing programs relating to health systems will benefit enormously from this work.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationDelivering Distinctive Value in Emerging Economies
Subtitle of host publicationEfficient and Sustainably Responsible Perspectives from Management Researchers and Practitioners
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Pages285-296
Number of pages12
ISBN (Electronic)9781000527193
ISBN (Print)9780367714710
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2022
Externally publishedYes

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