What is the primary outcome of the ePatient movement?

The primary outcome of the ePatient movement is patient engagement. This movement emphasizes the importance of patients being active participants in their healthcare journey, empowered by information technology and digital tools. Through access to medical records, online health information, and communication with healthcare providers, patients can take a more proactive role in managing their health. This engagement leads to better communication between patients and healthcare professionals, improved adherence to treatment plans, and overall better health outcomes.

While healthcare cost reduction, improvement in health literacy, and increased treatment options are valuable aspects of the ePatient movement, they originate from higher levels of patient engagement. Engaged patients are more likely to seek out information, understand their health conditions, and effectively communicate with their healthcare team, which, in turn, can lead to cost-effective care, enhanced health literacy, and the exploration of various treatment options. Thus, patient engagement is the foundational element that drives these other positive outcomes.