A Systematic Review of Practice Standards and Research Ethics in Technology-Based Home Health Care Intervention Programs for Older Adults

Objective: The purpose of the review is to assess frequencies of reporting adherence to professional practice standards and research ethics in studies of technology-based home health care programs. Methods: Key databases were searched to yield 2,866 abstracts that were independently rated by two reviewers using inclusion-exclusion criteria, resulting in 107 articles that were then reviewed for reports of practice standards and research ethics. Results: Issues related to professional practice standards and research ethics were not well reported. When reported, adherence to practice standards included preintervention training, use of intervention protocols, supervision, and mechanisms for risk management. Research ethics most commonly reported were informed consent, REB/IRB approval, and protection of privacy. Discussion: The results raise questions as to whether practice standards and research ethics are addressed sufficiently when health service delivery occurs in technology-based environments. Guidelines for professional accountability in e-health service delivery are needed.