Physicians' Use of Digital Health Interventions in the Management of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Abstract

Globally, the use of digital health interventions (DHIs) is expanding, along with growing scientific evidence of their effectiveness. Given the high and increasing prevalence of noncommunicable liver disease, we surveyed 295 physicians across Spain about their knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, practices, and access with regard to DHIs for patient care and in particular for liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Physicians reported high familiarity with DHIs, although most had not recommended them in patient care. Addressing concerns, including limited available time, evidence of effectiveness, education, training, and access may contribute to an increased uptake of these technologies.

Keywords: Digital health interventions; Hepatology; Liver disease; Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH); Spain.