Addressing Digital Skills Disparity in Healthcare
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 18 March 2025.
Merlijne Sonneveld highlights the gap in digital skills within healthcare, stressing that millions in the Netherlands face challenges with digital care tools, leading to inequality.
Scale of Digital Healthcare Disparity
Recent data reveals that approximately 3.5 million people in the Netherlands lack adequate digital skills to navigate healthcare platforms [2]. This significant gap has prompted immediate action, with the Helpdesk Digitale Zorg responding to 40,000 support calls in the past year alone [1]. The challenge extends beyond traditional assumptions about digital literacy, affecting not only elderly or low-literate individuals but also those who consider themselves digitally competent [1].
Impact on Healthcare Outcomes
The consequences of digital inequality in healthcare are profound and measurable. Merlijne Sonneveld emphasizes that digitally skilled patients can take immediate action with tools like skin lesion scanning, while those lacking these capabilities often delay seeking medical attention, potentially compromising early diagnosis and treatment outcomes [1]. This disparity has become particularly evident as healthcare institutions increasingly integrate digital solutions, with hospitals like Rivierenland implementing comprehensive digital systems including e-consultations and video calling services [4].
Institutional Response and Support Systems
Healthcare organizations are actively addressing these challenges through multi-faceted support systems. The Helpdesk Digitale Zorg has established itself as a crucial resource, offering over 100 manuals in 20 languages and providing step-by-step guidance to both healthcare institutions and patients [1]. This support has proven particularly valuable during rapid digital transitions, as exemplified by the Parnassia Groep’s successful implementation of a new client portal [2].
Future Outlook and Recommendations
As healthcare digitalization continues to advance, organizations must maintain focus on accessibility and support. Sonneveld will address these challenges at the upcoming Healthcare and ICT fair on April 8, 2025 [1]. The integration of digital healthcare tools, such as video consultations, continues to expand, with 32 practices already incorporating these services into their regular care offerings [3]. This ongoing digital transformation underscores the critical importance of maintaining robust support systems to ensure equitable healthcare access for all populations.