Development of a Model for the Successful Implementation of Electronic Health Records, with a Focus on Trust as a Central Mechanism (VERA)

Background

The electronic health record (ePA) is a central element of the digital transformation of the healthcare system in Germany. It is intended to make medical information available across sectors and thereby improve patient care. At the same time, current debates show that acceptance of digital health applications does not depend solely on their technical functionality. Rather, the decisive factor is whether citizens trust the institutions involved, the data processing procedures, and the digital applications. The VERA project therefore investigates how trust in the ePA develops, which factors strengthen or weaken it, and what significance trust has for the use of digital health services.

Objectives and Approach

The project focuses on the question of how trust in the ePA develops and which individual, social, and structural factors influence its acceptance and use. Against the backdrop of the ongoing digitization of the healthcare system, the project examines trust as a central prerequisite for the successful implementation of digital health innovations. The research project takes an interdisciplinary approach, combining perspectives from digital public health, health sciences, and the social and behavioral sciences. At the same time, the project aims to further expand existing networking opportunities within the University of Siegen and establish new collaborations. With this funding, the University of Siegen is laying the groundwork for the development of an innovative research focus in the field of digital health while simultaneously strengthening the next generation of researchers at the university.

Project Leader

Dr. Laura Maaß

The “VERA” project is funded through the Junior Research Group Fund (IMPULS) at the University of Siegen. This funding supports the conceptual development of a research project aimed at securing external funding as part of a junior research group program.