Consumers Reveal Personal Health Records (PHRs) Are Barely on Their Radar

IDC: US. A survey of 1,095 consumers, reveals the majority of respondents (83%) have never used personal health records (PHRs) in either electronic or paper form. The primary reason for not using a PHR, is lack of awareness. Fifty-two percent (52%) of respondents indicate they are simply unaware of the concept, with nearly one in five (18%) noting they would consider using PHRs if recommended by a physician. When asked of their plans for future use of a PHR, consumers are decidedly ambivalent, with 82% uncertain; another 8% stating never.

Consumers' access to their personal health data, whether supplied by their health plans or healthcare providers, is an important step to helping them mak e better care decisions the report. PHR software is a high-potential market, but, for it to truly flourish, the industry needs to do a better job of educating consumers about what these products are and how they can be used to improve the quality of the healthcare services they receive. PHRs also have to become easier to create and maintain.

Of the small percentage (17%) of respondents who do use PHRs, a significant majority (90%) use either paper-based PHRs or common PC tools, such as a word processor, rather than specific PHR products. What's intriguing here is that respondents of this survey are found to be generally computer literate and frequent users of the Internet. Yet, even the few who use PHRs overwhelmingly rely on paper or generic PC software. Consumers who do use PHRs cite their health history (42%), a physician's recommendation (21%), and a health plan's recommendation (11%) as the top three reasons. Health Industry Insights’ Report

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