5th Edition of World Nursing Research Conference 2026

Abstract

Scientific Background - Online Health Services (OHS) have emerged in response to healthcare challenges and provide a way to streamline the healthcare system. Despite their numerous advantages, various studies have presented differing findings regarding their efficacy in populations with different sociodemographic characteristics.

Research Objectives - To describe OHS use and its characteristics; to examine knowledge, attitudes, barriers, and usage patterns among various groups in Israel; to explore the relationship between OHS consumption and patient-reported outcome and experience measurements (PROMs and PREMs); and to present a predictive model for OHS consumption.

Method - A cross-sectional study was conducted among Jewish and Arab populations with a national random representative sample taken according to gender, ethnicity, age, and religious affiliation. Sampling was stratified by ethnicity and geographical regions. An online questionnaire was administered through iPanel’s records.

Key Findings - The sample comprised 2001 participants with an average age of 47, half of them being women. Participants were more familiar with low-level technology and used it more frequently, and most reported the absence of technological or emotional barriers. Perceived efficacy of OHS was high, but some participants preferred face-to-face treatment. Predictors of familiarity and use of high-level OHS included being male, Arab, insured by the Clalit HMO, and having familiarity with OHS, high perceived health literacy, efficacy and safety.

Conclusions - Online treatment and face-to-face treatment are complementary services; High-level OHS and low-level OHS are two distinct types of services; The absence of technological barriers makes it possible to leverage and expand the provision of OHS in Israel.

Implications and Recommendations for Policy Makers - Efforts should be directed toward improving online health literacy, focusing on using high-level technology; The elderly population’s capabilities and needs should be mapped and personalized service frameworks should be established; Health perception measurements should be used to predict OHS use.