Digital empowerment on hold: DiGA adoption gaps-a German national cross-sectional patient survey study.

ABSTRACT: Digital health applications (DiGAs), prescribable and reimbursed in Germany since 2020, have the potential to enhance patient self-management. This study aimed to assess rheumatology patients' awareness, willingness to use, suitability, and actual adoption of DiGAs. Between February 17 and April 8, 2025, adult patients attending seven German rheumatology outpatient clinics completed an electronic survey. A total of 246 patients participated (mean age 50.4 years; 71.1% female), with most treated at university hospitals (59.8%). The predominant diagnoses were rheumatoid arthritis (41.1%), psoriatic arthritis (18.3%), and axial spondyloarthritis (10.2%). While only 19.5% reported prior use of medical apps, 39.8% were aware of DiGAs, and 12.6% had used one. Notably, 84.6% reported at least one

SUBMITTER: Kremer P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12227445 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature