Focus Groups in Elderly Ophthalmologic Patients: Setting the Stage for Quantitative Preference Elicitation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Health Services Research
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients face preference-sensitive treatment decisions but are often excluded from decision-making.
• Effective quantitative preference elicitation requires understanding the specific needs of the AMD patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare for quantitative preference elicitation in AMD patients through qualitative research.
• To identify special requirements for data collection in AMD patients.
• To refine patient-relevant treatment attributes and levels, and understand preference structures.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with 21 AMD patients.
• An interview guide focused on seven potentially relevant treatment attributes.
• Deductive content analysis by two independent reviewers identified subcategories and preference trends.

Main Results:

• Interviewer assistance is necessary for quantitative surveys with AMD patients.
• The top five patient-relevant attributes were: visual function effect, injection frequency, approval status, side effects, and monitoring frequency.
• Patient statements guided attribute and level refinement, informing quantitative instrument design.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative research is crucial for designing and administering quantitative preference elicitation instruments.
• This approach enhances familiarity with the target population and their preferences.
• It effectively supports the refinement of attributes and levels for preference studies.