Parental use and views of the child personal health record

In New South Wales, Australia, the Child Personal Health Record (CPHR, aka 'The Blue Book', which includes notes on health and development) is proclaimed as an important document with widespread use throughout the state. Despite the significance of the record, there are few published evaluations of the efficacy of the CPHR. Parental use and views of the CPHR were examined using a two-phase, mixed-method design. One hundred and twenty mothers completed an online questionnaire, which included questions on demographics, use and views of the CPHR and child care experience. Six of these mothers participated in a follow-up interview. Perceived value of the CPHR was at its highest when the child was younger and if the child was first-born. The CPHR is used by medical professionals, yet broadening its use may increase efficiency of information transfer and promote parent understanding of developmental records, especially on growth indicators such as head circumference, which are not well understood. Implications for CPHRs as an empowering tool for families are considered.