United Nations University Policy Brief Highlights Hospital Websites as Digital Health Service Platforms
A policy brief from the United Nations University (UNU) emphasizes the evolving role of hospital websites, transitioning them from mere communication tools to essential digital health service platforms. The brief, which draws on applications of the Health Online Service Provision Index (HOSPI) in Ecuador, Greece, Malaysia, and Portugal, highlights that citizens increasingly expect public and private services to be available online. Hospital websites can significantly reduce administrative burdens, improve access to reliable health information, empower patients, and enhance institutional transparency. The HOSPI tool assesses websites across four criteria: Content, Services, Community Interaction, and Technology Features. While the studies compared differ in various aspects, a consistent message emerged: hospital websites generally perform better as information and communication platforms than as fully developed digital service platforms.
