Tensions ahead: how do we build feasible digital health systems that are person-centred and usable?

Globally, the term person-centred care has become all-pervasive across healthcare delivery. It has been suggested that it has become synonymous with good quality care. The term is used frequently in the aims and objectives for healthcare service and provision, although what lies behind the rhetoric in terms of practice may be questionable. Further, in an environment which is becoming increasingly dependent on technology, the interaction needs the user experience of both consumer and healthcare provider. There is a challenge as national surveys of health professionals continue to criticize the usability of digital health interfaces. This panel discussion aims to highlight the factors, which should be considered when designing health information interfaces as person-centred for all users. Drawing on our panel’s expertise, we suggest interfaces need to consider two main factors: personalization and user acceptance.