Organizational effects of information and communication technology (ICT) in elderly homecare: a case study.
The use of information and communication technology (ICT) to support integrated healthcare services in elderly homecare is becoming more established. In particular, ICT can enable information exchange, knowledge sharing and documentation at the point-of-care (POC). The aim of this study was to explore these effects using the Old@Home prototype. Old@Home was perceived to contribute in developing horizontal links for communication between individuals who work together, independent of geographical distance or organizational affiliation, and to contribute to increased work efficiency. The prototype was further seen to reduce professional isolation by providing a holistic overview of the care process. User centred design and implementation of Old@Home was considered key to facilitating acceptance of organizational changes. Participation of care professionals not only led to a better understanding of the needs of involved organizations, but also increased end-users' involvement and commitment, stimulating them to test and improve the prototype until the final version.
Vimarlund
Vivian
V
Department of Computer and Information Science (IDA) Linköpings Universitet, SE - 581 83 Linköping, Sweden. vivvi@ida.liu.se
Olve
Nils-Göran
NG
Scandurra
Isabella
I
Koch
Sabine
S
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003142:Communication; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000458:organization & administration; D006699:Home Care Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007256:Information Systems / Q000458:organization & administration*; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000458:organization & administration; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D019095:Point-of-Care Systems / Q000458:organization & administration; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000458:organization & administration*