Using Patient Portals to Increase Engagement in Patients with Cancer

Abstract

Objectives: To review patient portals which serve as a tool for patient engagement by increasing access to electronic health care information and expanding ways to communicate with health care providers.

Data sources: Reviews of the literature and first-hand experience.

Conclusion: Meaningful Use requirements propelled the design and development of patient portals in recent years. Patient engagement in oncology can improve quality of life and outcomes.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses facilitate patient adoption of patient portals and support usage. Patient education helps manage communication expectations and understanding of online medical information.

Keywords: electronic communication; online health; online record access; patient accessible electronic health records; patient engagement; patient portals.