There is considerable evidence indicating the benefits
of providing patients with access to their health
information, including increased patient participation
in health-related decision-making, decreased
decisional conflict, and increased adherence to
care.19–21 Engaged patients have higher levels of
satisfaction, increased understanding of their care,
more engagement in health improving behaviors,
and improved health and outcomes.1 22–25 These
patients receive more patient-centered care,24 and
have increased levels of trust of, better relationships
with, and more confidence in their physicians.22
Additionally, increased patient engagement has
shown a positive correlation with reduction in
overall expenditure and reduction in litigation
against health professionals