The adoption of digital health technologies is growing, but many doctors remain hesitant due to concerns about security, usability, and workflow disruption. To accelerate adoption, digital health tech companies must focus on practical solutions that address these challenges.
Based on an AusDoc survey of 160 doctors exploring their understanding and use of digital health solutions, here are five key strategies to drive wider acceptance among Australian doctors:
1. Enhance Usability and Seamless Integration
Doctors are already overwhelmed with administrative tasks, and poorly designed technology only adds to the burden. Health tech companies must prioritise user-friendly interfaces and ensure seamless integration with existing electronic health records (EHRs) and clinical workflows.
- Develop intuitive and efficient platforms that reduce the learning curve.
- Ensure compatibility with existing systems to prevent workflow disruptions.
- Conduct real-world usability testing with doctors to refine the experience.
“If a system takes me longer to use than my current workflow, it’s just not worth it. Simplicity and integration are key.” – GP
2. Strengthen Data Security and Compliance
Many doctors resist digital tools due to concerns over patient data security and compliance with privacy regulations. Companies must emphasise robust cybersecurity measures and clear compliance with regulations such as the Australian Privacy Act and My Health Record security standards.
- Implement end-to-end encryption and AI-driven threat detection to prevent breaches.
- Provide clear transparency about data storage, access, and usage.
- Obtain certifications and compliance assurances to build trust with medical professionals.
“Patient confidentiality is a priority. If we don’t trust that a system protects patient data, we simply won’t use it.” – Specialist
3. Provide Effective Training and Support
Lack of proper training is a major barrier to adoption. Digital health companies should offer comprehensive, on-demand training tailored to different experience levels.
- Develop interactive, case-based training modules to help doctors learn new systems efficiently.
- Offer dedicated support teams to assist with troubleshooting and onboarding.
- Implement peer-led learning programs, where experienced users can guide new adopters.
“I struggled with the new prescribing software at first, but structured training helped me use it more efficiently. Training should be mandatory.” – GP
4. Demonstrate Tangible Clinical Benefits
- Doctors need clear, evidence-based reasons to adopt new technology. Health tech companies should provide real-world case studies and data-driven results that highlight improved patient outcomes and efficiency.
- Publish clinical research and case studies demonstrating better patient care.
- Show measurable benefits such as reduced administrative workload, faster diagnostics, and improved treatment adherence.
- Partner with trusted medical institutions to validate efficacy.
“I was sceptical about AI-assisted diagnostics, but after seeing it improve our early cancer detection rates by 30%, I was convinced.” – Specialist (Oncologist)
5. Customise Solutions to Fit Different Medical Specialties
One-size-fits-all digital health solutions often fail because different specialties have unique needs. Companies should tailor solutions for various medical fields and involve doctors in the development process.
- Create specialty-specific features (e.g., AI-assisted diagnostics for radiologists, remote monitoring for cardiologists).
- Gather continuous feedback from doctors to refine product offerings.
- Adapt technology to different clinical environments (e.g., hospital vs. private practice).
“What works for a GP clinic won’t necessarily work for a cardiology practice. Customisation is essential for real adoption.” – Specialist (Cardiologist)
What’s Next for Digital Health Adoption – Final Thoughts?
Digital health adoption among doctors will accelerate if health tech companies address usability, security, training, clinical impact, and specialty-specific needs.
By focusing on these five key areas, companies can bridge the gap between innovation and practical, everyday clinical use — ensuring that digital health solutions truly enhance patient care and doctor efficiency.
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Source:
AusDoc survey: Doctor understanding and use of digital health solutions; March 2025 (n=160)
This article was written with the assistance of AI