Elin Thygesen

• Holm, Trine; Thygesen, Elin; Hausvik, Geir Inge & Westergren, Per Christer Thomas (2026). Navigating structural demands and relational care: a qualitative study of public health nurses’ experiences and handling of online screening tools. BMC Nursing. 25. doi: 10.1186/s12912-026-04727-4. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Online screening tools are recommended in well-child visits to support early detection and standardized assessment, while also facilitating meaningful dialogue and collaboration with parents. However, little is known about how public health nurses experience and handle these tools in practice. The aim of this study was to explore public health nurses’ experiences with, and handling of, online screening tools in their work practices in well-child clinics and school health services. We used observations and semi-structured interviews to capture public health nurses’ experiences and practices after integration of online screening tools. Public health nurses were observed during well-child visits, and when possible, also before and after visits to provide a broader understanding of their practice. In total, eight public health nurses were observed in connection to well-child visits with families of children aged 0–7 years. Interviews were conducted over an extended time-period, with a total of 13 public health nurses participating individually or in groups. Data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis of verbatim transcripts and field notes. The findings from this study illustrate how public health nurses experienced tension between structural requirements and relational values when online screening tools were implemented into their practice. The relationship with families was considered the cornerstone of their work, shaping trust, continuity, and holistic understanding. While the tools offered opportunities for structured assessment and dialogue, they also introduced uncertainty about interpretation, follow-up, and professional responsibility, often diverting time and attention away from nurturing relationships. The experienced tension between standardized procedures and relational care reflected a deeper struggle to balance professional obligations with the relational connection that public health nurses regarded as foundational to their role. These dynamics are explored through three themes: When the Structures Comes Between Us, When We Get Trapped Within the Structures, and When the Structures Supports Our Practice. To realize the potential benefits of online screening tools, integration must safeguard both structural requirements and relational needs, ensuring that structures do not come at the expense of trust, relationship, and presence.

• Losada-Floriano, Diego; Thygesen, Elin; Sanfilippo, Filippo; Hansen, Michael Rygaard & Fossum, Mariann (2026). Service Robots as Work Support for Health Personnel in Long-Term Care: Protocol for a Scoping Review. JMIR Research Protocols. 15, p. 89435–89435. doi: 10.2196/89435. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background Demographic shifts are increasing the global demand for long-term care services, coinciding with a worldwide shortage of health care personnel. Service robots, designed to perform tasks in both professional and personal use, are perceived as a potential solution to alleviate health care personnel’s workload and enhance the quality of care. However, the existing literature is fragmented and heterogeneous, with a limited emphasis on the role of service robots in supporting residents rather than health care personnel. Furthermore, there is a lack of consistent definitions of service robotic technologies and a scarcity of studies on implementation models and frameworks. Objective This scoping review aims to map and synthesize evidence regarding the implementation of service robots as work support for health care personnel in long-term care settings. Methods A comprehensive 3-step search will be conducted in Embase, MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo, CENTRAL, Scopus, and CINAHL, along with gray literature databases and institutional repositories. Eligible sources encompass empirical studies and gray literature involving service robots, health care personnel, residents aged 65 years or older, and stakeholders such as informal caregivers within institutional long-term care. Exclusions apply to studies on home care, medical or industrial robots, and nonrobotic technologies. Data will be extracted and analyzed using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, with findings presented in tables, diagrams, and narrative summaries to identify gaps and inform future research and implementation strategies. Results The project has been funded for a 4-year period starting in April 2025. This protocol was developed in October 2025 and subsequently registered in November 2025. A comprehensive search strategy was formulated and completely conducted on October 24, 2025. The screening of 4884 titles and abstracts was completed in December 2025, resulting in the retrieval of 64 (1.3%) full-text articles for eligibility assessment. Subsequent phases, including data extraction, analysis, evidence synthesis, and presentation of results, will be conducted sequentially. The scoping review is expected to be finalized by June 2026. Conclusions This scoping review is expected to delineate the extent and characteristics of the existing evidence on service robots as work support for health personnel in long-term care settings. It will highlight the key reported outcomes and challenges encountered in implementation studies, as well as the theoretical frameworks, models, and concepts applied to address these issues. Trial Registration Open Science Framework QWK58; https://osf.io/qwk58/ International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/89435

• Fossum, Mariann; Sanfilippo, Filippo; Hansen, Michael Rygaard; Enerstvedt, Camilla & Thygesen, Elin (2026). Exploring the Role of Robotics in Nursing Homes: Insights from Healthcare Professionals - PubMed. Studies in Health Technology and Informatics. ISSN 0926-9630. doi: 10.3233/SHTI260712. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This paper reports findings from a qualitative descriptive study exploring the potential use of service robots in nursing homes. Participants in three workshops expressed optimism and creativity regarding the role of robots in supporting a variety of tasks, including housekeeping, transportation, mo …

• Holm, Trine; Thygesen, Elin; Hausvik, Geir Inge & Westergren, Per Christer Thomas (2025). Parents’ Experiences with Online Screening Tools in Well-Child Clinics and School Health Services: A Qualitative Study. Global Qualitative Nursing Research. 12. doi: 10.1177/23333936251342728. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The aim of this study was to explore the experience of parents who completed online screening tools about their child’s health, development, and well-being, and parents’ experiences with the public health nurse’s handling of this information during a well-child visit for children aged 0 to 7 years. Twenty well-child visits were observed, and 16 parents were interviewed individually or in pairs using a semi-structured interview guide. The parents’ experiences were explored using reflexive thematic analyses of verbatim transcripts and field notes. Five main themes were developed; Experiencing Ease of Use and Confusion, Evoking Novel Insights, Evoking Insecurity and Vulnerability, Evoking New Expectations and lastly, Navigating Expectations, consisting of two sub themes; Harnessing Potentials and Neglecting Potentials. These findings indicate that online screening tools might provide important benefits, provided that parental insecurity and vulnerability are addressed by information and dialogue.

• Safari, Mugula Chris; Wass, Sofie & Thygesen, Elin (2024). One Size Does Not Fit All—Facilitating Participation of People with Intellectual Disability in Design of Digital Technology. International Journal of Design. ISSN 1991-3761. 18(1), p. 23–38. doi: 10.57698/v18i1.02. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  While marginalized groups are increasingly involved in design processes, established methods and techniques require several cognitive and sensory abilities that may not fit when designing with people with intellectual disabilities. Earlier research on design of technology with people with intellectual disabilities has primarily focused on the technological outcomes and less on the techniques and adjustments made by facilitators. In this study, we explore facilitators’ experiences of supporting adults and younger adults with intellectual disabilities during participation in digital technology design. The facilitators and users in this study participated in the design of a digital self-reflective career tool and a digital transport support tool. We conducted individual interviews with facilitators who had participated in various design activities and thematically analyzed the data. The findings show that facilitators focus on adapting to individual needs, experience a process of personal development, and learned by doing throughout the design activities. We argue that while the role of facilitating was duty- and task-oriented and challenging, the facilitators also experienced several essential gains. Experienced gains include the development of design-related knowledge, professional development, and a change in attitudes toward people with intellectual disability. This paper provides recommendations for guiding facilitators, considering both structural and individual needs, and offers insight into lessons learned.

• Wanderås, Magnus; Abildsnes, Eirik; Thygesen, Elin & Martinez, Santiago (2024). Hammering nails with a screwdriver: how GPs perceive video consultations. British Journal of General Practice Open. 8(4), p. 1–10. doi: 10.3399/BJGPO.2024.0010. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of video consultation (VC) expanded considerably, with GPs indicating high satisfaction with it. However, use of VC declined as lockdown measures were eased. Aim: To explore reasons why VC use has declined in Norwegian general practice since the start of the pandemic by investigating GPs’ experiences with VC and their attitudes towards it in a post-pandemic setting. Design & setting: Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 13 GPs in southern Norway between May 2022 and March 2023. Method: Data analysis was conducted by applying the six steps of Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Although the implementation of VCs was unplanned, most participants were able to use this modality without much problem. Several GPs initially envisioned long-term VC use. However, despite certain positives, VCs were largely sidelined in favour of face-to-face and telephone consultations, owing to their practicality and VC’s limited usefulness when considering the extra effort required. Nonetheless, GPs recognised ways of using VC that might exploit its strengths, but they highlighted how its sustained use would require them to replace other consultation modalities. They also identified extrinsic factors that might lead to the increased use of VC, including improved VC technology and patient demand. Conclusion: Although VC is now part of many GPs’ consultation toolboxes, its perceived relative lack of usefulness and extra effort compared with other remote consultation modalities mean that most GPs have chosen to abandon it as a routine consultation modality.

• Wass, Sofie; Thygesen, Elin & Imre, Özgün (2023). Designing towards social inclusion - Insights on employers' willingness to recruit people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Proceedings of the European Conference on Information Systems ECIS 2023. Association for Information Systems (AIS). ISSN 9781958200087. Full text in Research Archive
• Wass, Sofie; Thygesen, Elin & Purao, Sandeep (2023). Principles to Facilitate Social Inclusion for Design-Oriented Research. Journal of the AIS. 24(5), p. 1204–1247. doi: 10.17705/1jais.00814. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  We develop principles that facilitate socially inclusive design-oriented research with marginalized groups. Building on the recognition that the research process must be informed by theoretical perspectives about social inclusion, our effort begins with an empirical investigation of a multiyear research project that designed several IT-based solutions for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We treat the efforts to design each solution as a “case,” capture primary data from multiple sources, and analyze it in light of three facets of social inclusion drawn from prior work: self-determination, belongingness, and social capital. The findings are interpreted to derive five principles for a socially inclusive design-oriented research process: (1) respecting multi- perspective problem ownership and integrated solution design, (2) surfacing emic contributions to guide artifact design, (3) leveraging the support network to shape artifact design and refine research conduct, (4) customizing design-evaluate cycles with inclusive practices, and (5) pursuing authenticity in research collaborations. We elaborate each principle with connections to different facets of social inclusion, guidelines suggested by our empirical investigation, and a mapping against contemporary design-oriented research approaches. The five principles suggest key directions to facilitate a socially inclusive design-oriented research process when working with marginalized groups. The paper concludes with a discussion of implications for IS scholars, and pointers for using design-oriented approaches for greater social inclusion of marginalized populations.

• Safari, Mugula Chris; Wass, Sofie & Thygesen, Elin (2023). Digital technology design activities—A means for promoting the digital inclusion of young adults with intellectual disabilities. British Journal of Learning Disabilities. ISSN 1354-4187. 51(2), p. 238–249. doi: 10.1111/bld.12521. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Information and communication technology has become an important aspect of everyday life, including community living and social participation. However, people with intellectual disabilities face several societal inequalities, including digital exclusion. Even if people with intellectual disabilities still do not have the same access as others, this group is increasingly involved in digital technology design activities. Although digital technology design activities can lead to several user gains, little is known about how such activities affect digital inclusion. Therefore, we explore whether and how participation in digital technology design activities can support the digital inclusion of young adults with intellectual disabilities. We interviewed seven young adults with intellectual disabilities about their participation in ten digital technology design sessions. We also collected reflective notes from eight support workers who participated in the same design activities. The interviews were analysed thematically. Thematic analysis generated four themes describing how participation in technology design activities can support the digital inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities: improving digital skills and knowledge, displaying skills and competence, increased interest in technology use, and influencing and adapting technology. Participation in digital technology design activities with support workers can provide new opportunities for young adults with intellectual disabilities and can help overcome several digital activity barriers. Designers and researchers should increasingly, and actively involve people with intellectual disability in digital technology design activities as it can support and promote digital inclusion.

• Wanderås, Magnus; Abildsnes, Eirik; Thygesen, Elin & Martinez, Santiago (2023). Video consultation in general practice: a scoping review on use, experiences, and clinical decisions. BMC Health Services Research. 23(1). doi: 10.1186/s12913-023-09309-7. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic forced healthcare workers to use alternative consultation approaches. In general practice, the use of video consultations (VCs) increased manyfold as countries were locked down. This scoping review aimed to summarize scientifc knowledge concerning the use of VC in general practice and focused on (1) the utilization of VC in general practice, (2) the experiences of the users of VC in general practice, and (3) how VC afected the clinical decision-making of general practitioners (GPs). Methods A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the methodology of Joanna Briggs Institute. Review questions were formulated to match each focus area. A three-step search strategy was employed to search scientifc and gray literature sources. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, OpenGrey, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from 2010 to March 11th, 2021, and the search was re-run on August 18th, 2021. The extracted data were deductively coded into pre-defned main themes, whereas subthemes were inductively synthesized. The data within each subtheme were analysed through descriptive content analysis and presented in a narrative synthesis. Results Overall, 13 studies were included after screening 3,624 studies. Most patients were satisfed with VCs. VCs were most suitable for simpler issues, often shorter than face-to-face consultations, and were more likely to be used by younger patients. GPs enjoyed the fexibility and shorter duration of VCs; however, they felt an unsatisfactory deterioration in the GP-patient relationship. Despite the loss of clinical examination, diagnostic assessment was mostly successful, with little fear of missing serious illness. Prior clinical experience and a preexisting relationship with the patient were important factors for successful assessment via VC. Conclusions Both GPs and patients can be satisfed with VC in general practice in specifc contexts, and adequate clinical decision-making is possible. However, disadvantages such as a diminishing GP-patient relationship have been highlighted, and the use of VC in non-pandemic settings is limited. The role of VC in the future of general practice remains unclear, and further research is needed on the long-term adoption of VC in general practice.

• Safari, Mugula Chris; Wass, Sofie; Thygesen, Elin & Haugland, Silje (2023). Intellectual Disability, Digital Technologies, And Independent Transportation – A Scoping Review. In Bui, Tung X. (Eds.), Proceedings of the 56thAnnual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences. HICSS Conference Office. ISSN 9780998133164. p. 1983–1992. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Transportation is an essential aspect of everyday life. For people with intellectual disabilities transportation is one the largest barriers to community participation and a cause of inequality. However, digital technologies can reduce barriers for transportation use for people with intellectual disabilities and increase community mobility. The aim of this scoping review was to identify and map existing research on digital technology support for independent transport for people with intellectual disabilities and to identify knowledge gaps relevant for further research. The authors conducted a scoping review of articles presenting digital technologies designed to assist in outdoor navigation for people with intellectual disabilities. The search yielded 3195 items, of which 45 were reviewed and 13 included in this study. The results show that while a variation of design elements was utilized, digital technologies can effectively support individuals with intellectual disability in transport. Further research should focus on multiple contexts and types of transportation, different support needs during independent travel, real-world settings, participatory approaches, and the role of user training to enhance the adoption of digital technologies.

• Safari, Mugula Chris; Wass, Sofie & Thygesen, Elin (2022). Motivation of people with intellectual disabilities in technology design activities: the role of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Behaviour and Information Technology. ISSN 0144-929X. p. 1–19. doi: 10.1080/0144929X.2021.2015442. Full text in Research Archive
• Safari, Mugula Chris; Wass, Sofie & Thygesen, Elin (2021). ‘I Got To Answer the Way I Wanted To’: Intellectual Disabilities and Participation in Technology Design Activities. Scandinavian Journal of Disability Research. ISSN 1501-7419. 23(1), p. 192–203. doi: 10.16993/sjdr.798. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  User involvement in technology design processes can have positive implications for the designed service, but less is known about how such participation affects people with intellectual disabilities. We explored how 13 individuals with intellectual disabilities experienced participation in the design of a transport support application. The study is based on qualitative interviews, photovoice interviews, participant observations, and Smileyometer ratings. A thematic analysis generated the following themes: a sense of pride and ownership, an experience of socialization, and a sense of empowerment. The findings suggest that participation in design activities is a primarily positive experience that develops the participants’ skills. However, experiences such as boredom may occur. The variability within the experiences of the participants show that it is crucial to be aware of individuality, preferences, and personal interests when designing with people with intellectual disabilities.

• Fredriksen, Erica; Thygesen, Elin; Moe, Carl Erik & Martinez, Santiago (2021). Digitalisation of municipal healthcare collaboration with volunteers: a case study applying normalization process theory. BMC Health Services Research. 21. doi: 10.1186/s12913-021-06429-w. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin; Safari, Mugula Chris & Wass, Sofie (2021). Transport og arbeidsinkludering. In Gjertsen, Hege Kristin; Melbøe, Line & Hauge, Hans A. (Ed.), Arbeidsinkludering for personer med utviklingshemming. Universitetsforlaget. ISSN 9788215046921. p. 117–126. Full text in Research Archive
• Fredriksen, Erica; Martinez, Santiago; Moe, Carl Erik & Thygesen, Elin (2020). Key challenges and best practices in the coordination of volunteers in healthcare services: A qualitative systematic review. Health and Social Care in the Community. ISSN 0966-0410. doi: 10.1111/hsc.13261. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Cooperation between voluntary organisations and volunteers within healthcare services contributes to the development of public welfare. The coordination process between healthcare services and volunteers must therefore be studied to understand associated challenges and best practices. This paper presents a systematic literature review of studies that have used qualitative methods. The review was conducted to identify the knowledge base concerning these issues. The search was performed in 4 April 2019 on five databases: EbscoHost, Ovid, Scopus, Emerald and Svemed+. The selection criteria included papers published between 1 January 2009 and 4 April 2019. In total, 5,340 papers were extracted; after removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts, 49 papers were independently read by two of the authors. Ten papers addressed the research question and were thus included for further investigation. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist was used to check the eligibility of the papers, all of which were found to be of sufficient quality for analysis. A thematic analysis for synthesising qualitative research was used to identify key challenges in the coordination process and the best practices needed to deal with these challenges. The findings demonstrated the pursuit of a common understanding between employees and volunteers and described challenges in organising the associated work. The main solution applied to these challenges was the involvement of a volunteer coordinator. Although several identified challenges remained unresolved, the papers selected for this review provide an overall picture of volunteer cooperation in health services.

• Fredriksen, Erica; Martinez, Santiago; Moe, Carl Erik & Thygesen, Elin (2020). Communication and information exchange between primary healthcare employees and volunteers – challenges, needs and possibilities for technology support. Health and Social Care in the Community. ISSN 0966-0410. 28(4), p. 1252–1260. doi: 10.1111/hsc.12958. Full text in Research Archive
• Barken, Tina Lien; Söderhamn, Ulrika & Thygesen, Elin (2019). A sense of belonging: A meta-ethnography of the experience of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease receiving care through telemedicine. Journal of Advanced Nursing. ISSN 0309-2402. p. 1–12. doi: 10.1111/jan.14117. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Aim To synthesize the qualitative research in the literature addressing how patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease experience care received by telemedicine. Design Meta‐ethnography. Data Sources Twelve studies, published from 2013 – 2018, were identified by a search of relevant systematic databases in June 2017, including updated searches performed in June 2018. Review Methods The studies were reviewed and critically appraised independently by three researchers. The review followed the seven steps of meta‐ethnography developed by Noblit and Hare, including a line‐of‐argument synthesis. Results The synthesis revealed three second‐order constructs: presence, transparency, and ambivalence. Using a line‐of‐argument synthesis, a model was developed that showed patients’ experience of a sense of belonging when receiving care by telemedicine. Conclusion This meta‐ethnography contributes to the existing and contradictory evidence base of telemedicine to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. It addresses and adds renewed understanding of who would benefit from telemedicine and why, by illustrating the interrelationship between the conditions of telemedicine care, the severity of COPD, and the need for connectedness and emphasizes that the need to belong in telemedicine care increases with the progression of illness burden and severity. Impact The present study endorses the view that the patients with a severe illness burden are likely to benefit the most when receiving care by telemedicine. However, the benefits rely on the fact that the telemedicine interventions involve emotional, social, and clinical support, including regular contact with healthcare professionals, to meet the requirements to belong.

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• Thygesen, Elin (2025). Kampen om teorigrunnlaget - om den norske Amerikalinjen og veien tilbake. Agder Vitenskapsakademi. ISBN 9788269402810. doi: https:/admin.mekke.no/data/images/2537/%C3%85rb%C3%B8ker/A%CC%8Arbok%20Agder%20Vitenskapsakademi%202024%20web.pdf. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). Proceedings from InnArbeid International Conference on work inclusion for persons with intellectual disabilities. Linköping University Electronic Press. ISBN 9789176850176. 29 p. Full text in Research Archive

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• Fossum, Mariann; Hansen, Michael Rygaard; Thygesen, Elin; Tørresen, Jim; Melkas, Helinä & Losada-Floriano, Diego (2026). SAKO project seminar. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Seminar June 2026 for all participants involved in the project with invited presenters.

• Enerstvedt, Camilla; Fossum, Mariann & Thygesen, Elin (2026). Robotteknologi kan gi sykepleiere mer tid til pasientene. Sykepleien Forskning. ISSN 1890-2936. 114. doi: 10.4220/sykepleiens.2026.109539. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Robotteknologi kan endre hvordan sykepleiere jobber og hvilke oppgaver de utfører. Men det er fortsatt sykepleierne som må vurdere pasientens behov og gi omsorg.

• Fossum, Mariann; Hansen, Michael Rygaard; Thygesen, Elin; Leifson, Ragni MacQueen; Giil, Elisabeth & Enerstvedt, Camilla [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2026). SAKO Supplier Dialogue. doi: https:/www.uia.no/english/about-uia/centres-and-networks/centre-for-e-health/events/sako-supplier-dialouge.html. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The University of Agder invites suppliers and technology providers to a dialogue meeting as part of the research project SAKO. The aim of the meeting is to explore potential technological solutions and collaboration related to the development of a service robot solution for use in nursing homes, with a particular focus on relieving staff from heavy and repetitive transport tasks in their daily work.

• Thygesen, Elin (2026). UPSCALE Foreløpige funn fra case studien. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2025). UPSCALE - Unfolding the processes between user needs and health and welfare technology (HWT) in socio-technical transition of health and care services. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2025). SAKO: Bruk av serviceroboter i sykehjem. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin; Moe, Carl Erik; Sweden, Cristine Gustafsson, Sophiahemmet University,; Finland, Helinä Melkas, LUT University, & Netherlands, Vaitiare Mulderij-Jansen, Utrect University, the (2025). Enhancing digital health literacy in Europe. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The rapid advancement of health and welfare technologies has profoundly transformed the landscape of health and care delivery, offering immense potential for improved access and efficiency in healthcare. Despite these promising developments, they pose significant challenges concerning digital accessibility, particularly affecting older adults, individuals with lower educational backgrounds, and populations from marginalized communities due to insufficient digital skills. The EU-funded project UPSCALE - Unfolding the processes between user needs and health and welfare technology in socio-technical transition of health and care services - running from 2024 to 2027, aims to address the systemic nature of health and care services through a socio-technical lens. This initiative seeks to understand how health and welfare technologies can be organized and integrated into health and care services, emphasizing the diverse needs of users. UPSCALE employs a multifaceted methodology, including a comprehensive review of literature and policy documents, four in-depth case studies of varied community contexts, and a Europe-wide survey. The project investigates obstacles related to the adoption of health and welfare technologies, focusing on user experience, accessibility, and the availability of information and guidance. UPSCALE aspires to provide a synthesis of socio-technical transition pathways that will shape the future of health and care services, alongside policy recommendations to support the adoption and evolution of health and welfare technologies. These pathways will encompass scenarios that relate to emerging roles, missions, and activities in technology use. In this presentation, preliminary findings from the four case studies will be shared, along with plans for the upcoming survey.

• University, Christine Gustafsson, Sophiahemmet; Thygesen, Elin; Finland, Riika Saurio, LUT University, & Netherlands, Vaitiare Mulderij-Jansen, Utrecht University, (2025). UPSCALE - Unfolding the processes between user needs and health and welfate technology in the socio-technical transition of health and care services. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The UPSCALE project addresses the integration of Health and Welfare Technology (HWT) in healthcare, focusing on the growing challenges of population ageing and technological transformation. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, including country-specific case studies, interviews, participatory co-creation methods, and a Europe-wide survey. The goal is to understand the experiences and needs of diverse HWT users, including patients, older adults, people with disabilities, and both professional and informal caregivers. The study explores factors that influence HWT adoption, focusing on inclusion, exclusion, and barriers at both individual and societal levels.

• Holm, Trine; Thygesen, Elin; Westergren, Per Christer Thomas & Hausvik, Geir Inge (2025). Oral Presentation- Global Network of Public Health Nursing. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). Liability, information, and concent in municipal health and care services. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). How is the technology competence of the elderly? How can technology be used in a sensible way so that the elderly can have "the good life"? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). Senter for e-helse. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). Kampen om teorigrunnlaget – den norske amerikalinjen og veien tilbake. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). Grensessprengende data for grensesprengende forskning. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). UPSCALE Unfolding the processes between user needs and health and welfare technology in socio-technical transition of health aand care services. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2024). KOMPASS Jeg kan-jeg vil-jeg får det til! Full text in Research Archive
• Nybakke, Henriette Lauvhaug; Sand, Kari; Thygesen, Elin; Fuglerud, Kristin Skeide & Bradway, Meghan (2023). Rekruttering for å sikre inkludering. Full text in Research Archive
• Fuglerud, Kristin Skeide; Moe, Carl Erik; Aanestad, Margunn; Nyhus, Kjetil; Quinteros, Ragnie & Tharaldsen, Jeanette [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2023). Paneldebatt: Klarer vi å tilby digitale velferdstjenester slik at de som trenger det mest også vil ha nytte av tjenestene? [Internet]. Arendal, streaming. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). Sammen mot digitalt utenforskap. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). Digital inkludering – hva med de som blir stående utenfor? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). Sammen mot digitalt utenforskap. Full text in Research Archive
• Velez, Aurora & Thygesen, Elin (2023). Why is tackling soisal isolation and loneliness important? [TV]. https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2023/10/23/why-is-tacklin. Full text in Research Archive
• Barken, Tina Lien; Karlsen, Cecilie & Thygesen, Elin (2023). End conference project I2I. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Melkas, Helinä (2023). Nordic Health and Welfare Technology Research Network. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Moe, Carl Erik (2023). Kompass - et karriereverktøy. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Kjørstad, Ingrid (2023). Service Innovation in Arendal municipality. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). Sammen om digitalt utenforskap. Full text in Research Archive
• Melkas, Helinä; Thygesen, Elin; Pekkarinen, Satu; Gustafsson, Christine; Johansson-Pajala, Rose-Marie & Gullslett, Monika Knudsen (2023). How can Technology Contribute to Sustainable Social Services in Europe? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). From Isolation to Inclusion. Innovation in social service delivery to improve social inclusion and counteract loneliness in the North Sea Region. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). Det gode liv som gammel. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin; Gustafsson, Christine & Melkas, Helinä (2023). The Nordic Health and Welfare Technology Research Network. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2023). Centre for e-health. Full text in Research Archive
• Melkas, Helinä; Gustafsson, Christine & Thygesen, Elin (2023). PROTECT at EHiN Collaboration between HWT companies and researchers: What can we do together? Full text in Research Archive
• Karlsen, Cecilie & Thygesen, Elin (2022). Innovation in social service delivery to improve social inclusion and counteract loneliness. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Lundberg, Lene (2022). Målrettede grep for å inkludere flere, sosialt og digitalt. [Internet]. Universitetet i Agder. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  En aldrende befolkning og rask utvikling av digitale innbyggertjenester gjør at sårbare personer faller utenfor det digitale fellesskapet. Å motvirke ensomhet og å gi eldre grunnleggende teknologikompetanse er blant målene.

• skogedal, magnus nødland & Thygesen, Elin (2022). Ny teknologi skal hjelpe personer med utviklingshemming ut i arbeidslivet. [Internet]. Forskning.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Principles to Facilitate Social Inclusion for Design-oriented Research. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Holen-Rabbersvik, Elisabeth (2022). Inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming i arbeidslivet - trengs nye digitale løsninger? Full text in Research Archive
• Hovland, Henriette; Karlsen, Cecilie; Haraldstad, Kristin & Thygesen, Elin (2022). Abstracts presented at the Norwegian Public Health Conference, 18–19 October 2022, Hamar, Norway. Scandinavian Journal of Public Health. ISSN 1403-4948. 50(1). doi: 10.1177/14034948221121568. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Rekruttering for å sikre inkludering. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Velferdsteknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Kan innovasjon stoppe sosial ulikhet og ensomhet? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Fra isolasjon til inklusjon: Tjenesteinnovasjon for sosial inklusjon og forebygging av ensomhet. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Samtale mellom forskere og brukere. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2022). Fra ensomhet til sosial inkludert - samskaping med eldre i Arendal kommune. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Tjenesteinnovasjon for sosial inklusjon og forebygging av ensomhet. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Hvordan skape et inkluderende samfunn - kan teknologi hjelpe oss? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Paneldiscussion: Health and welfare technology for children, adolecents and young adults with intellectual disabilities. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). InnArbeid-Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming i arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Hvordan skape et inkluderende samfunn - kan teknologi bidra? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Hvordan skape det inkluderende samfunn - kan teknologi bidra? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Health and welfare technology: Synthesis of present and future research needs. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Leve hele livet - innovasjon for økt sosial deltagelse blant eldre i Arendal. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). Fra isolasjon til inklusjon (I2I). Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). InnArbeid - innovasjon gjennom samskaping. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2021). InnArbeid - Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming i arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). i2i - From isolation to inclusion. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). InnArbeid - innovasjon i offentlig sektor. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). In For Care - Informal care and voluntary assistance: innovation in service delivery in the North Sea Region. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). InnArbeid - Need-based innovation of technology-supported services for including persons with intellectual disabilities in working life using technology. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). InnArbeid [Into work] - Need-based innovation of technology-supported services for including persons with intellectual disabilities in working life using technology. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). In For Care - Informal care and voluntary assistance: innovation in service delivery in the North Sea Region. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). Pensjonister jobber frivillig. [TV]. NRK Sørlandet. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Wass, Sofie (2020). InnArbeid - innovasjon i offentlig sektor Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming i arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). InnArbeid - Need-based innovation of technology-supported services for including persons with intellectual disabilities in working life using technology. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). User-driven innovation for the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in working life through the use of technology. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). Need-based innovation of technology supported services for including persons with disabilities in working life. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming i arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). Bruk av teknologi i helsetjenesten - til glede eller besvær? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2020). From Isolation to Inclusion (I2I). Innovation in social service delivery to improve social inclusion and counteract loneliness in the North sea region. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin & Karlsen, Cecilie (2019). Trenger sykepleiere teknologikompetanse? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). Teknologi i eldreomsorgen - til glede eller besvær? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). InnArbeid: Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming i arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi? Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin; Wass, Sofie Sara Terese; Hansen, Lise Amy; Moe, Carl Erik; Holen-Rabbersvik, Elisabeth & Ludvigsen, Ann-Elisabeth [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). InnArbeid - need-based innovation of technology-supported services with intellectual disabillities in working life. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). InnArbeid - Need-based innovation of technology-supported services for including persons with intellectual disabilities in working life using technology. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). Utviklingshemmende i inkluderingsdugnaden. [Radio]. NRK Sørlandet. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). InnArbeid - Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming I arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin (2019). InnArbeid - Behovsdrevet innovasjon for inkludering av personer med utviklingshemming I arbeidslivet ved bruk av teknologi. Full text in Research Archive
• Thygesen, Elin; Wass, Sofie Sara Terese; Hansen, Lise Amy; Moe, Carl Erik; Holen-Rabbersvik, Elisabeth & Ludvigsen, Ann-Elisabeth [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). InnArbeid - Userdriven technology innovation for including people with intellectual disability in working life. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  In Norway, a national objective is to facilitate the participation of the entire population in the workforce, including people with intellectual disabilities (ID). However, it is difficult to find, enter and retain suitable employment for people with ID and the majority start their disability pensions directly after high school. The aim of the InnArbeid project is to develop services and technologies to facilitate a different transition: from high school to a sustained working life for people with ID. A new service model that includes technological support will be developed to facilitate a smoother transition to working life. This implies an opportunity for better coordination of plans and services for this group. In addition, a digital communication solution will be developed to improve the communication between employees in the housing service, employees at the school or at the workplace, relatives and the people with ID. A job search tool will also be developed to connect jobseekers with potential employers. Finally, studies will be conducted on how technological solutions can simplify the work situation for people with ID. This may include existing and newly developed solutions. Methods The methodological approach in the InnArbeid project is based on Action Design Research (ADR). ADR methodology combines action research and design research and includes user-need mapping, co-creation, evaluation and implementation through iterative processes whereby users participate in all stages. Through such extensive user involvement, we aim to gain insights and commitment from all actors, thereby enhancing the possibilities for realisation of the innovations. It is a challenge to develop technology for people with ID since they have reduced learning ability and individual needs. An important part of the project will therefore be to develop new methods for involving this user group. Results In the first phase of the project we have identified relevant actors in the transition from school to working life - as well as their positive and negative experiences of the transition. Key research questions were: What are the needs, barriers, and opportunities for increased work participation for people with ID? More than 60 people have participated in workshops, interviews and observations. At the conference, we will present some preliminary user insights and our mapping of user needs towards the project innovations. Discussions & implications InnArbeid aims to contribute to innovation and improvements in several areas: Better coordination and closer cooperation between actors to make work adaptations more efficient. A new service model for providing greater predictability and security for people with ID and their relatives. Technology-based services to support individual skills and greater participation for people with ID. As more people with ID can join the workforce instead of daycentres, municipal expenses may be reduced and new engagements in society made available for people with ID.

• Skåre, Terese Solvoll; Midtbust, May Helen; Thygesen, Elin & Dahl, Berit Misund (2025). Implementation of electronic patient-reported outcome measures in cancer care Perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals on the opportunities and challenges in adoption and linked symptom management. Norges teknisk-naturvitenskapelige universitet. ISSN 9788232694372. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  An increasing number of people are being diagnosed with cancer, and according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the disease is one of the leading causes of death globally. Substantial advancements in diagnostics and treatment in recent years have resulted in a growing number of individuals either surviving cancer or living longer with the disease. Despite these improvements, both the disease itself and its various treatment modalities are associated with a range of symptoms and side effects that may impact quality of life, disease progression, and, ultimately, survival. In addition to affecting the lives of patients, and their families, this also places an increasing burden on healthcare systems, both in Norway and internationally. The aim of this thesis was to gain a deeper insight into the implementation of electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs). Comprising three qualitative studies, the thesis explores the experiences and perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals regarding various aspects of ePROM implementation. The studies explore: (1) the barriers and facilitators described by healthcare professionals in the implementation processes; (2) how ePROMs are perceived to affect clinical workflow; and (3) patients’ experiences of person-centred care and symptom management, as well as their needs and preferences for an ePROM tool. This project employed qualitative methods tailored to the aims and research questions of the three studies. Data were collected through individual interviews and focus groups. In Study 1, participants were healthcare professionals with experience in implementing the ePROM tool Eir in municipal healthcare services (n= 14). Study 2 included healthcare professionals involved in the implementation of Eir as part of a cluster-randomised trial in specialist healthcare services (n= 9). Study 3 was conducted in outpatient cancer clinics and included cancer patients (n= 10). This study explored their experiences with person-centred care and symptom management in current cancer services, as well as their needs and preferences for an ePROM tool. Data collection in Study 3 was conducted in two stages: Stage 1 (n= 8) and Stage 2 (n= 6). Different qualitative analysis methods were applied, selected according to the nature of each study: thematic analysis as described by Braun & Clarke (Study 1); framework analysis as outlined by Ritchie & Spencer, incorporating the “Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research” (CFIR) (Study 2); and reflexive thematic analysis as described by Braun & Clarke (Study 3). In Study 1, we found that healthcare professionals shared a common goal of enhancing patients’ quality of life through systematic symptom management and patient-centred care. The analysis identified three themes that illuminate barriers and facilitators to the implementation of ePROMs in municipal healthcare services: (1) Achieving patient-centred care, (2) Crucial management and training, and (3) Technological barriers. In Study 2, the findings indicated that implementing ePROMs in specialist healthcare is a complex process, dependent on multiple factors across different contexts. Three themes highlight this complexity: (1) Willingness to invest: accepting that new eras come with a cost, (2) Management anchoring: changes start at the top, and (3) Creation of a cohesive framework: fostering collective comprehension. In Study 3, we explored cancer patients’ experiences with patient-centred care and symptom management, as well as their needs and preferences regarding the use of ePROMs. While patients expressed satisfaction with their current care, they also called for a more holistic approach. They view ePROMs as a tool to promote comprehensive care and to support healthcare professionals in taking greater responsibility for prioritising symptoms. Two themes illustrate this: (1) Symptom management in the shadow of disease-centred care, and (2) ePROMs: Bridging holistic care and disease management. In this thesis, the findings are discussed from a meta-perspective and examined in relation to the CFIR and existing knowledge in the field. In this way, the results from all three studies are synthesised across the following four themes: (1) Balancing added value with the cost of practice change; (2) The impact of leadership engagement on success; (3) Achieving implementation readiness: Navigating multilevel change processes; and (4) Experiencing symptom management. The use of ePROMs has the potential to enhance more person-centred cancer care by giving patients a clearer voice in both treatment and follow-up. Although patients express satisfaction with the current model, they call for a more holistic perspective, something they believe ePROMs can help realise. Implementing ePROMs in clinical practice is a complex process that requires changes to established working methods. Healthcare professionals play a key role in this process of change, but tend to externalise barriers and, to a greater extent, overlook the importance of their own role as either facilitators or barriers to implementation. Applying implementation science approaches can support necessary adaptions along the way, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful integration of ePROMs into clinical practice. CFIR can contribute to a better understanding of facilitators and barriers within an implementation process. However, it has limited capacity to account for how different settings involved in an implementation interact with and influence one another. This lack of attention to cross-setting dynamics may be considered a limitation of the framework.

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