Digital Responses of Patient Organizations to COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Naomi Cahill, Khalid Aboalshamat, Fahad Hanna, Simon Wallraf, Marie-Luise Dierks, Cosima John, Jonas Lander
Primary Institution: Hannover Medical School
Hypothesis
How have patient organizations adapted digitally in response to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Conclusion
Patient organizations rapidly adapted their services to digital formats during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating resilience and the potential for improved support services.
Supporting Evidence
- 2212 records were identified, with 13 articles included in the review.
- Videoconferencing software was the most commonly used tool for digital adaptation.
- Digital adaptations increased accessibility for some individuals while creating new barriers for others.
- Participants reported a preference for continuing digital group activities post-pandemic.
Takeaway
Patient organizations used technology to help people during the COVID-19 pandemic, making it easier for them to get support even when they couldn't meet in person.
Methodology
This scoping review followed JBI guidelines and included a systematic search of multiple databases to identify relevant literature on digital adaptations by patient organizations during the pandemic.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the focus on larger, more professionalized organizations that may not reflect the experiences of smaller or less funded patient organizations.
Limitations
The review may not fully represent all patient organizations, focusing primarily on well-established organizations in Europe, particularly the UK.
Participant Demographics
The included articles primarily focused on patient organizations in the UK, with a variety of health conditions addressed, including addictive behaviors and rare diseases.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website