The digitalization of pneumology and the role of medical societies

Background Medicine is becoming increasingly digitalized. Digital applications are finding their way into health care. The aim of the study was to record the attitudes of members of the German Respiratory Society (DGP) towards digitalization. Methods The study was conducted in cooperation with the DGP, the German Respiratory League and the Health Innovation Hub (HIH) of the German Federal Ministry of Health. Data were gathered with the help of an online questionnaire (July/August 2021), analyzed descriptively and supplemented with a subgroup comparison regarding proactivity of the members. Results 284 questionnaires were complete and included in the analysis (31% female); 76.4% believed that digitalization would change their daily professional life within five years. 47.2% had prescribed or planned to prescribe Digital Health Applications (DiGA). Lack of technology skills of patients and the time required for health professionals were seen as critical (49.3 and 47.5%). Regarding DiGA, scientific proof of efficacy (48.9%) and ease of use for patients (47.9%) were rated as most important. The subgroup comparison showed that 42.7% actively informed themselves about digital medicine and that this group saw more opportunities for meaningful use of DiGA. Conclusion The members of the DGP have mostly a positive view about the profound changes expected from digital medicine. The more active the role of DGP members and other professional societies, the more digital elements can add value to practice.