Multidisciplinary teams must work together to co-develop inclusive digital primary care for older people

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has abruptly changed healthcare service delivery. 1 In a few weeks, clinicians and patients were asked to transition from face-to-face contacts to 'digital-first' solutions (that is, telephone, video, online) wherever possible. However, there is a real risk that innovation entrenches inequalities in care access, delivery, and patient safety. 2 The adoption of digital technologies is known to happen unevenly across different groups, therefore contributing to the so-called 'digital divide'. 3 Older people seem to be particularly underserved: evidence shows that increased age is associated with less access to technology and lower digital literacy, 3,4 which may contribute to lower adoption, less sustained use, and less access to care and treatment. Paradoxically, this same group was identified as high risk and is more likely to have comorbidities, physical disabilities, and be shielding, 5 and, therefore, they have most to gain from the regular and remote care that digital technologies can offer. For these reasons, it is critical to work with a diverse group of older people, particularly from seldom heard groups. GPs and other healthcare providers, researchers, designers, and relevant voluntary and community organisations must come together to explore the main barriers and enhancers to access remote and digital care, and find innovative ways to translate these findings into high-quality solutions to improve the experience both for providers and patients-in order to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care that leaves no one behind.

The appropriateness of the decision to quarantine healthcare workers exposed to a severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)–positive coworker based on national guidelines

“…The findings of our study correlate with the findings of studies that measured the risk in HCWs in comparison to the general population. 23 Other studies that correlate with our study emphasized measures required to contain and minimize infection with SARS-CoV-2, such as early detection of cases, surveillance measures and others, all to minimize infection rates. These measures have been successful to some extent; these studies were meant to enhance safety guidelines in the hospital environment.…”

Determinants of Use of the Care Information Exchange Portal: Cross-sectional Study

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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer assessment in primary care: a qualitative study of GP views

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