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Communicating cancer treatment information using the Web: utilizing the patient's perspective in website development
Wendy Hopmans1,2, Olga C Damman3, Danielle R M Timmermans4
1Department of Public and Occupational Health, EMGO+ Institute for Health and care research, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. w.hopmans@vumc.nl.
BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making
|December 8, 2014
Summary
Patient input significantly improves online cancer treatment information websites. Engaging patients in development leads to clearer, more usable resources for informed decision-making regarding treatments like stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR).
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Digital Health
- Patient Education
Background:
- Online cancer information is crucial for treatment decisions but often lacks patient-centered design.
- Healthcare professionals must involve patient groups in developing online resources for better usability.
- Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) is a new, guideline-recommended treatment for early-stage lung cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the usability of an online patient information website for stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR).
- To improve online cancer treatment information through qualitative user testing and redesign.
- To enhance patient engagement in cancer treatment decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative user testing involving 27 participants (SABR patients and relatives).
- Utilized 'thinking aloud' approach and semi-structured interviews during website evaluation.
- Iterative website redesign based on user feedback and data analysis.
Main Results:
- Initial website had comprehension issues with medical terms, evidence, and side effects of SABR.
- Post-redesign, participants reported fewer understanding problems.
- User feedback led to improved content clarity and additional recommendations for online information.
Conclusions:
- Patient and relative input is vital for creating comprehensive and usable cancer information websites.
- User-centered design enhances the effectiveness of online resources for cancer treatment.
- Improved online information can facilitate greater patient participation in treatment decisions.
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