Abstract:

The evolution of patient and family education technology continues to improve patient health outcomes and reduce patient safety related concerns. The health care team is adopting many platforms to better educate their patients.

The intension is that instant access to health information through technology will allow patients to better manage their health issues. Health education technology has come a far way since 1960’s. Previously, health care workers were handing out pamphlets and brochures to patients. Now health care professionals have developed videos and presentations to educate their patients and families. Most recently, electronic information through the internet is enabling patients and their families to obtain information about their health and make informed decisions with the assistance of their health care provider.

In the 21^st century also health educators, doctors, patients and their families are proving that this venture has promoted cost containment, improved patient outcomes and effective patient care management. The literature examined research related to computer based patient education. Health care data base resources were selected for review of the current literature from Medline, CINAHL and the World Wide Web. The search strategy included exploring the subject heading terms ‘technology’ and ‘patient education’. The findings presented in this paper suggest that the use of technology to improve patients' knowledge and to involve them in health care decisions leads to better health outcomes. Kaiser Permanente Panorama City (Calif.) Hospital is one of the hospitals utilizing these creative techniques. This hospital has seen improvements in readmission rates, patient satisfaction and overall hospital satisfaction. There has been reduction in both cardiac and pneumonia readmission rates by more than six percent in less than two years. Patient satisfaction, reported as those patients who understand their condition, has increased from just over 70 percent in 2008 to 90 percent in 2010. Overall hospital satisfaction increased from approximately 80 percent in 2008 to 90 percent in 2010. The purpose of this article is to explore the evolution of computer technology in health care education and, in particular, to examine the application of technology in the process of knowledge transfer and skill development necessary for self-health promotion and disease self-management. A systematic review of the published literature on the development and use of computer-based patient education is followed by a discussion of the application of research findings to practice.

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