Personal healthcare records research: past, present and new dimensions

Abstract

When designed and managed properly, personal health records (PHRs) are valuable tools that can reform healthcare systems. Yet while the PHR literature covers multidiscipline cases on design requirements, implementations and early positive results, it also echoes concerns related to the undelivered potential and challenges tied to PHRs. Consequently, a vast body of literature exists with unclear themes and blurred lines between perception, realisation and outcome. This paper exposes dominant research themes in PHR research and aids the understanding of this developing field. Our bibliographic analysis of 524 papers published from 2000 to 2015 revealed a core set of 61 publications. Interesting identified themes include the operation of PHRs with emphasis on innovation, prototypes and governance, as well as the impact of PHRs on specific medical conditions, healthcare processes and sociotechnical issues. Design issues were also exposed focusing on user requirements, design elements and technologies and lessons learned through empirical cases.