Usability Experiences of Family Caregivers of Older Filipino Patients (60+) with a Digital Health System in a Public Hospital

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Howard Jr. P. Cariaso, University of Santo TomasFollow
Joachim Carl E. Espiridion, University of Santo TomasFollow
Athena Kim G. Agbuya, University of Santo TomasFollow
Gian Mico C. Bulandos, University of Santo TomasFollow
Ria Crislie C. Alcantara, University of Santo TomasFollow
Julian Hallie D. Dabu, University of Santo TomasFollow
Timothy Ruvick M. De Guzman, University of Santo TomasFollow
Joseph Gabriel B. Daquioag, University of Santo TomasFollow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

School Name

University of Santo Tomas Senior High School

Track or Strand

General Academic Strand (GAS)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Bernardo, Jerimae, S.

Start Date

23-6-2025 1:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2025 3:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Y306

Abstract/Executive Summary

Family caregivers are essential in securing healthcare for older Filipino patients, including navigating digital health platforms such as the Online Consultation Request and Appointment (OCRA) System at a public hospital in Manila. This study explored their usability experiences with the OCRA System guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework. A qualitative-exploratory single case study design was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s inductive thematic analysis. Seven themes emerged: Perceived Convenience, Navigating the Interface, Adapting to the System, Influence of Others, Facing Access Constraints, Feelings While Using, and Limits to Usability. Three types of impact were also identified: Promoting Routine Usage, Encouraging Initial Adoption, and Conditional and Interrupted Engagement. Findings revealed that usability is shaped not only by system design but also by emotional responses, social support, and access conditions. While caregivers appreciated the system’s convenience and intuitive interface, barriers such as limited digital literacy, connectivity issues, and restricted appointment availability hindered sustained use. Social and institutional factors facilitated initial engagement, but ongoing use depended on overcoming these challenges. The study emphasizes the need for user-centered improvements that account for emotional, social, and contextual factors to enhance system usability and ensure inclusive access to digital healthcare for Filipino families.

Keywords

accessibility; digital health; family caregivers; healthcare system; usability experiences

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Food, Nutrition, and Health (FNH)

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes