A qualitative study showing that a telecare tool can have benefits before and during the initial hearing assessment appointment. (3rd April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Heffernan, Eithne; Maidment, David W.; Ferguson, Melanie A.
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 62:Number 4(2023)
• Page Start: 295
• Page End: 303
• Publication Date: 2023-04-03
• Subjects: Patient-centred care -- readiness -- telecare -- age-related hearing loss -- qualitative research; Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2022.2041740
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To examine patient and audiologist experiences and perspectives of using a patient-centred telecare tool, the Ida Institute's Why Improve My Hearing? (WIMH) Tool, before and during the initial hearing assessment appointment. Design: A qualitative study comprising individual semi-structured interviews using a maximum variation sampling strategy. The data were analysed using an established thematic analysis technique. Study sample: Fifteen participants, including ten patients (i.e. adults with hearing loss) and five audiologists, were recruited from Adult Audiology Services within the United Kingdom's publicly-funded National Health Service (NHS). Results: Three themes described the impact of using the WIMH Tool. Theme 1 (i.e. enhanced preparation before the appointment): the Tool helps patients to better understand and accept their hearing difficulties in advance of their first appointment. Theme 2 (i.e. enriched discussion during the appointment): the tool can enhance patient-centred communication, as well as the efficiency of the appointment. Theme 3 (i.e. varied impact on outcomes following the appointment): the Tool can improve patient motivation, readiness, and involvement in decision-making, though it may have limited impact on additional outcomes, such as adherence. Conclusion: The WIMH Tool can be successfully implemented in audiological practice, resulting in benefits before and during the initial hearing assessment appointment.