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

TL;DR

This study surveys Canadian users to understand their comfort, sharing preferences, and privacy concerns regarding remote healthcare technology, highlighting the importance of aligning data practices with user expectations.

Contribution

It provides empirical insights into user perspectives on data privacy in remote healthcare, informing better privacy-preserving design strategies.

Findings

Most users are concerned about data privacy in remote healthcare.

Preferences vary depending on healthcare scenarios and data types.

Users generally trust healthcare providers more than third parties.

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.