DEALING WITH THE DIGITALIZATION OF CARES

This work examines how digital innovations affect patient-provider relationships with an emphasis on patient advocacy associations (PAAs) in Italy. Patient advocacy associations are organizations which represent and give “voice” to patients and their relatives. These organizations are progressively acquiring importance within the modern healthcare systems comprised the Italian one. In the Italian healthcare system patient advocacy associations are involved in many activities not just related to the assistance of patients but also to intervene in policy making discussions both at regional and at national levels. In the present study we have employed a questionnaire and we have collected data from 95 patients belonging to different PAAs. The results highlight the necessity of patient involvement in the implementation process of technologies and show that patients are typically in favor of the use of digital technologies in their care. Additionally, patients believe that digital technologies have a significant positive impact on healthcare research and efficiency. However, the introduction of new technologies causes a great deal of stress for both patients and healthcare workers. The report highlights the need for more research in this field, taking into account possible worldwide comparisons, and recommends the value of cooperation and training in order to lessen these difficulties.