Opt-in or opt-out health-care communication? A cross-sectional study

Background Patients need medication and medical condition-related information to better self-manage their health. Health-care professionals (HCPs) should be able to actively provide information outside of one-on-one consultations; however, patient consent may be required. Objective To investigate the Australian public's preferences, and factors that may influence their preferences, towards an opt-in versus an opt-out approach to health communication. Design A cross-sectional study using a structured questionnaire administered via Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing. Setting and participants Participants across Australia who were adults, English-speaking and had a long-term medical condition. Main outcome measures Preferences for opt-in vs opt-out approach to receiving follow-up tailored information. Results A total of 8683 calls were made to achieve the required sample size of 589 completed surveys. Many (346/589; 58.7%) indicated that they were interested in receiving tailored, ongoing follow-up information from their HCP. Nearly half (n = 281; 47.7%) preferred an opt-in service and 293/589 (49.7%) an opt-out service for receiving follow-up information. Reasons for preferring an opt-in service were being in control of the information received (n = 254); able to make a decision that is best for them (n = 245); opt-in service would save time for HCPs (n = 217); they may not want or need the information (n = 240). Many (n = 255) felt that an opt-out service should be part of the normal duty of care of their HCP and believed (n = 267) that this approach would ensure that everyone has access to information. Conclusions Respondents were interested in receiving tailored information outside of consultation times. However, preferences for an opt-in or opt-out approach were divided.