March 2008

Although consumers frequently use and seek out health information online, most are ambivalent about using health information technology (HIT), such as personal health records, due to concerns about privacy and confidentiality.

A recent survey, which is summarized in this snapshot, provides a comprehensive overview of California consumers' adoption, use, and perception of HIT. The findings reveal that most consumers are not actively using online tools, including electronic health records, email with their health professionals, and online appointment scheduling.

Among the other findings:

• Nearly half of consumers obtained health information on the Internet in the last 12 months and discussed that information with health care providers or family and friends;
• While 40% of consumers express interest in accessing a personal health record, only 2% currently do so;
• More than half of consumers are very or somewhat interested in scheduling an appointment online, but only 7% have actually scheduled an appointment this way; and
• Nearly half of comsumers are interested in receiving email from their doctors, but only 4% have done so.