Welfare technology, ethics and well-being a qualitative study about the implementation of welfare technology within areas of social services in a Swedish municipality

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose: Digitalization and e-health have potential to generate good quality, equal health, well-being and to develop and strengthen individuals’ resources with the goal of increased independence and participation in society. The implementation of welfare technology requires knowledge of digitalization, as well as an awareness of its meaning in terms of ethical principles and ethical analysis. The purpose of this study was to describe ethical analysis concerning the implementation of welfare technology, in terms of both strategies and tools, within areas of social services in a Swedish municipality. Method: We followed a working model that focused on increased knowledge and experience in the implementation of welfare technology from an ethical perspective. In the data collection were observations, a questionnaire with open-ended questions and focus group discussions used. Results: The analysis showed that when welfare technology was introduced and implemented within the area of social services in a municipality, ethical awareness resulting from the conflicts between various interests and values had to be addressed. Conclusions: The ethical analysis improved implementation of strategies and tools in terms of facts and values, and invisible underlying values to the concept of well-being.