Co-Investigator - Dr Sally Wheelwright
Co-Investigator - Dr Valerie Shilling
Using Electronic Questionnaires in Healthcare
A series of public consultation events held in 2025 in Sussex and Surrey explored the use of electronic questionnaires in healthcare, particularly among groups at risk of poorer health outcomes. The consultations aimed to understand barriers, concerns, and enablers related to digital health tools, especially in the context of the NHS's shift toward digital services.
Key findings
Older adults unfamiliar with digital technology need the most support. Accessibility issues, including physical, cognitive, and sensory impairments, also limit participation. Concerns about data privacy and online scams are widespread, and while some participants appreciate the efficiency of electronic questionnaires, others fear reduced face-to-face interaction with healthcare professionals. Participants emphasised the need for clarity on how their responses would be used to improve care and called for inclusive, accessible, and supportive digital systems.
Recommendations
- Training Provide community-based training, peer-support and a helpline to support everyone to access and use digital health services.
- Accessibility Accessibility needs to be built into online platforms from the start, with alternative methods provided to ensure an equitable service. Monitor for changes in accessibility needs over time.
- Education Healthcare staff should explain to patients how filling out questionnaires will contribute to their care and be prepared to answer questions.
Consultation events were held with four groups:
- Older adults at Age Concern, Hassocks
- South Asian women via Strategic Health and Wellbeing Services, Camberley
- LGBTQ+ individuals aged 50+ through Switchboard, Brighton
- Attendees of Wellsbourne Health and Wellbeing Cafe, Whitehawk, Brighton
Across these groups, digital access varied. While many had internet access and devices, confidence and digital literacy were inconsistent. Some participants had used the NHS App, but most preferred phone or in-person interactions. Common barriers included fear of scams, lack of trust in data security, and concerns about reduced personal contact with healthcare providers. Health conditions like Parkinson's, dementia, and visual impairments also posed challenges.
Participants suggested several enablers: training on device use, simplified and multilingual questionnaires, clear communication about the purpose and outcomes of the questionnaires, and visible follow-up actions. They also recommended support systems such as helplines, buddy schemes, and community-based digital literacy classes.
The consultations showed that while electronic questionnaires can enhance healthcare delivery and patient engagement, their success depends on inclusive design, clear communication, and robust support systems to ensure equitable access and trust.
Current Stage:
Active
Report
Using electronic questionnaires in healthcare - public consultation events https://shore-c.sussex.ac.uk/docs/pubcon.pdf