The management of personal health information (PHI) by older adults (OAs) takes place within a socio-technical context and requires the support of various stakeholders, including healthcare providers. This study investigates provider roles in supporting OA personal health information management (PHIM), barriers they face, and related design implications for health information technology (HIT). We interviewed 27 providers serving OAs in Seattle, WA. Providers support OA PHIM through medication management, interpreting HI, and providing resources. Barriers to OA PHIM described by providers include (1) challenges with communication between OAs, providers, and caregivers, (2) limited time and resources, and (3) limitations of tools such as secure messaging. Considering these barriers, provider roles, and the socio-technical context for HIT implementation, we recommend the design of HIT that facilitates communication across multiple provider types, integrates caregivers and patient-generated data, supports understanding of OA home environments, and offers credible health resources designed for OAs.
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