Bridging the gap

Abstract

Background: eHealth interventions have the
potential to enhance health outcomes for people with a low socioeconomic
position (SEP), but lack of knowledge on how to effectively meet the specific
needs of this population can limit their effectiveness and widen the digital
divide. Our study aimed to address this issue by developing an online guide for
professionals (e.g., researchers and health professionals) to support the development
and adaptation of eHealth interventions for people with low SEP.

Methods: During the initial phase, we
conducted two studies: (1) a Delphi study with professionals, identifying barriers
to developing, evaluating, and implementing eHealth interventions (top-down),
and (2) a communitybased study with people from low SEP, exploring their
perspectives on health, healthcare, and eHealth (bottom-up). In the second
phase, an iterative participatory process was used to develop the online guide,
involving 11 professionals in think-aloud sessions and interviews to assess
content and design acceptance. The presentation focuses on outcomes of this
second phase.

Findings: Professionals found the online
guide to be user-friendly and helpful, particularly the recommendations on
barriers, facilitators, and user scenarios. However, they requested more
practical examples and engaging content.

Discussion: This guide is an important
contribution to addressing the knowledge gap in eHealth interventions for
people with a low SEP and provides valuable information for professionals,
whether they are new to the field or have experience. Future research should
focus on enhancing the guide's usability and flexibility for its diverse
audience, including healthcare practitioners, and other eHealth professionals
working with this population.