Patienthood and participation in the digital era

Grantholders

  • Dr Sarah Chan

    University of Edinburgh

Project summary

Digital tools for data collection and analysis have prompted a shift in the nature of biomedical research and participation. Research modes such as biobanking, genetic epidemiology and population health data research continuously position individuals simultaneously as both patients and participants. 

By developing interdisciplinary medical humanities and social science approaches, this project will examine the changing nature of patienthood and participation in the digital era, and its effects on health-related research, innovation and healthcare delivery. 

It will develop novel ethical and conceptual frameworks for theorising participation in the context of social media, and investigate how social media can be used to address future health challenges, by enabling participation and providing wider access to information.