Digital competence in healthcare depends on age and support
Digital technology has become a central part of everyday life in Norwegian health and social services. The use of digital tools affects how healthcare personnel document patient information, communicate with colleagues, and perform treatment itself.
A new study shows that there are large differences in how proficient healthcare workers are at using this technology. Competence varies significantly based on factors such as age, how often they use digital systems in their daily work, and the training they receive from their workplace.
The results suggest that organizational support is crucial for employees to feel confident with new tools. When hospitals and municipalities offer good training and technical assistance, it becomes easier for employees to adopt new digital solutions effectively.
For the healthcare service to function as well as possible in the future, it is important that all employees have the required competence. The challenge ahead will be to ensure that everyone, regardless of age or experience, receives the necessary support to master the digital everyday life.