The potential of peer support to extend the reach of digital health

Abstract

BackgroundPeer support groups have proliferated since the 1960s, providing safe, informal environments where peers share experiences and information. A common model is for those who have progressed further along a care pathway or in dealing with a particular medical condition or psycho-social problem, to encourage those at an earlier stage of recovery, either within a group or one to one. Online support now co-exists with face to face models, providing an additional resource for those with digital access and competence.The paradigm of health care has moved towards the incorporation of health promotion, patient empowerment, self-management and community engagement. This has led to a broadening of activities and roles within health systems. The role of peer supporter has been incorporated in a range of behaviour change interventions promoting engagement and adherence. Increasingly these are delivered online. While this aims to extend their reach, it leaves those without digital access at a disadvantage in terms of the ability to make use of online health resources.Main textThough peer support has been used to maintain adherence to online programmes, its potential in assisting with access and thus widening participation has remained unknown.We successfully piloted the use of a paid peer supporter to help men without experience of IT to take part in an online intervention involving a prostate specific holistic needs assessment. Lessons were learnt in relation to training needs and support for the supporter and around data security, confidentiality and safeguarding.Alternative models of voluntary peer support maybe appropriate, particularly in the implementation phase of an intervention and require exploration. A framework for best practice in relation to Digital Health interventions is needed to guide future development of the role.ConclusionHealth services are predicted to increasingly rely on digital technologies over the next decade. Research into the impact of these technologies must include participants’ representative of the entire population. Efforts are needed to include those who are currently underrepresented in research such as the elderly and other disadvantaged groups. Innovative designs involving peer support in a research project may be valuable in addressing the current barriers to participation.