Patient participation in the development and application of eHealth

The aim was to gain insight in the preferences of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus regarding the moments and methods of patient participation in the development and application of eHealth, and which factors influence this. A digital questionnaire with both closed and open questions was distributed via various online platforms and the newsletter of the Diabetes Association in the Netherlands. Information was collected on: 1) willingness to participate; 2) preferences about the method of participation; 3) influencing factors on participation, including motivation, competence, resources, social influences, and outcome expectations; 4) background characteristics. 160 questionnaires were analysed. More than three quarter of the respondents intend to be involved in patient participation. Most respondents prefer solo participation methods over group participation, respectively 93% and 46%. Half of the respondents feel that they have sufficient knowledge to participate, and 40% feels that they can provide valuable input. As compensation for participation, participants prefer to use new technologies for free. As people with diabetes type 2 differ in their preferences for moments and methods of participation, it is recommended to offer different methods of participation and types of compensation in the process from development to application of eHealth.