Whose mammogram is this anyway? Perspectives on technology, breast health and mammography. Issue 2 (3rd July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kabel, Allison; Allen, Carla; Dimka, Jessica
• Is Part Of: Design for health. Volume 1:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 170
• Page End: 186
• Publication Date: 2017-07-03
• Subjects: Breast cancer -- care anywhere design -- patient empowerment -- screening guidelines; Medical technology -- Design -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Design -- Periodicals; Health facilities -- Design and construction -- Periodicals; 610.705
• DOI: 10.1080/24735132.2017.1386397
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2473-5132

Abstract

ABSTRACT: There is an increasing demand to ensure that emerging health technologies are patient-centred. Yet, understanding what constitutes patient-centredness can be a complex task, particularly in relation to screening technologies, where lack of patient-centred design can result in decreased compliance with screening recommendations. This holds true for breast cancer screening, where nearly 80% of women do not comply with screening mammography recommendations. To support patient-centred design of breast screening systems, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants who could provide diverse perspectives on breast screening, including mammographers, breast cancer survivors, and self-identified mammography avoiders. Interviews explored opinions and attitudes surrounding current screening technology and systems, and ways in which screening might be conducted in the future. Using an inductive, constructivist approach, we identified several themes that should be considered when designing breast screening technology and systems. Concerns regarding the current processes and needs for support in relation to self-advocacy were revealed. Interest in improved technology was wide-spread, but feelings of inadequacy limited acceptance of self-screening designs. This study showcased the opportunities for design scholarship to improve the breast cancer screening process and, potentially enhance the patient–provider relationship.