Developing digital applications for tailored communication in orthopaedics using a Research through Design approach. (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Groeneveld, Bob; Melles, Marijke; Vehmeijer, Stephan; Mathijssen, Nina; Dekkers, Tessa; Goossens, Richard
• Is Part Of: Digital health. Volume 5(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: Patient engagement -- patient education -- prototype evaluation -- design knowledge; Medical care -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Medical informatics -- Periodicals; 362.10285
• DOI: 10.1177/2055207618824919
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2055-2076

Abstract

Objective: Tailored communication and information provision is expected to contribute to patient-centred care (PCC) in total hip arthroplasty (THA). In previous research, three subgroups of THA patients were identified that are similar in their clinical, psychological and communication characteristics. Preliminary subgroup-specific design guidelines were also formulated. Using these insights as a starting point, a theoretical framework was developed for tailored information provision and communication using digital applications. This study aims to refine the framework as well as subgroup-specific design guidelines for digital applications. Methods: This study uses a Research through Design (RtD) approach, generating insights both from the development and evaluation of prototypes in the early design stage. Paper-based prototypes will be made for each subgroup and evaluated with patients and care providers. Semi-structured interviews are held with participants exploring their experiences with the prototype. A quasi-experiment with a non-random control cohort is used to validate the qualitative findings. Post-surgery consultations with and without prototype are videotaped and scored using a structured instrument. Results: A design diary will be used to summarize design decisions and considerations. Feedback from participants is analysed inductively. Adaptations in subgroup-specific guidelines will be based on comparison of verbal feedback and descriptive statistics from consultations with and without prototype. Conclusions: Although mixed-method feasibility studies of digital health interventions are common, this protocol also considers the utility of the early design process and the designer's perspective for realizing PCC and tailored care.