Exploring User Perspectives on Data Collection, Data Sharing Preferences, and Privacy Concerns with Remote Healthcare Technology

TL;DR

This study investigates user perspectives on data collection, sharing, and privacy in remote healthcare technology within a Canadian context. Using a between-subject survey (n=$384$) across four healthcare scenarios and five data types, it employs nonparametric tests to assess effects of age and scenario on comfort, concerns, and sharing decisions, with data collected via online and paper formats. Key findings show general willingness to adopt remote healthcare, but identifiable video data elicits the strongest privacy concerns, and adoption is lower among the 65+ age group, while emergency contexts can increase data-sharing willingness. The results inform privacy-preserving design and policy considerations for remote health tools in Canada, highlighting the need for granular data-type controls and age-aware strategies to enhance adoption and trust.

Abstract

Remote healthcare technology can help tackle societal issues by improving access to quality healthcare services and enhancing diagnoses through in-place monitoring. These services can be implemented through a combination of mobile devices, applications, wearable sensors, and other smart technology. It is paramount to handle sensitive data that is collected in ways that meet users' privacy expectations. We surveyed 384 people in Canada aged 20 to 93 years old to explore participants' comfort with data collection, sharing preferences, and potential privacy concerns related to remote healthcare technology. We explore these topics within the context of various healthcare scenarios including health emergencies and managing chronic health conditions.

Figures (2)

• Figure 1: A participant's flow through the four survey blocks. Each participant was assigned one of four remote healthcare scenarios.
• Figure 2: [Sharing preferences] Higher percentages (blue) indicate more participants would share data; red indicates fewer participants. Cells are coloured from darkest red (0%) to darkest blue (100%).