Intention to use a personal health record: a theoretical analysis using the technology acceptance model

Physicians who have an electronic health record in their office may have the option to provide their patients with a personal health record. Research was undertaken to determine if a patient population would indeed use a personal health record if the physician(s) made it available in the future. The technology acceptance model was used to evaluate both perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use (technology barriers). Although the perceived usefulness of a personal health record was a significant determining factor related to intention to adopt, technology barriers were indirectly related to intention to adopt as well. Technology barriers can be addressed by providing office staff for hands-on training as well as assistance with interpretation of medical information. Longitudinal research is needed to determine if the technology barriers decline over time and usefulness of the information promotes increased demand.