Implementation of a cross-border health service: physician and pharmacists' opinions from the epSOS project.

OBJECTIVES To explore the opinions of health professionals with experience of the European Patient Smart Open Services (epSOS) system regarding the epSOS services perceived utility, potential impact and main barriers and facilitators to its use. METHODS Qualitative study design involving focus groups with health care professionals with experience of epSOS system. A semi-structured topic guide was developed to guide the discussion. RESULTS epSOS services were seen as interesting intuitive services and easy to operate. The greatest impact was in terms of positive impact on communication, clinical safety and patient management. Data reliability, difficulties in accessing the service and aspects related to information technology architecture were considered the most relevant barriers. CONCLUSION This study has provided insights into the strengths and limitations of two new eHealth services for use across countries within the European Union, and has provided indications of how those services could be improved.