Digitalisation in pre‐purchase examination and prospects for an equine health database in Germany—Results of an online survey among equine veterinarians

Background Digital recording and storage of health data are becoming increasingly important in the fields of both human and veterinary medicine. There is currently a lack of information on the level of digitalisation among equine veterinarians in Germany and their attitudes towards advanced digitalisation. Objectives To collect opinions of equine veterinarians about (1) digital data collection in pre‐purchase examinations (PPEs), and (2) the establishment of an equine health database in Germany. Study design Cross‐sectional survey. Methods An online survey was developed and distributed via email exclusively to equine veterinarians in Germany. After 40 days of data collection, answers were used for descriptive statistical analyses. Results The survey was sent to 1055 recipients, of which 147 (13.9%) participated and 130 survey responses from equine veterinarians could be used for analyses. Most respondents were working in an equine practice (77.9%) and performing PPEs (93.8%), for which they mostly used printed protocols (86.0%). The PPE protocol of the German Equine Veterinary Association as a paper print was the format most frequently used (47.1%). The majority of participating equine veterinarians (90.2%) would use a digital protocol for PPEs if available. Concerns were expressed about user‐friendliness (55.9%) and integration into the daily veterinary routine (54.6%). Regarding the establishment of an equine health database, 72.3% of the respondents stated they would appreciate it. However, about one‐third would support such a development only under certain conditions: guaranteed data safety, collection of objective data or involving the opinion of other stakeholders. Main limitations Low response rate, potential non‐response bias and wide range of question topics. Conclusion A positive attitude towards digital PPEs and an equine health database in Germany became apparent. To facilitate further progress, it would be crucial to consider the concerns and conditions identified in this study to generate maximum compliance.