Implementing Experience Sampling Technology for Functional Analysis in Family Medicine - A Design Thinking Approach

Area of Science:

• Digital health
• eHealth
• Health informatics

Background:

• Healthcare is shifting from illness treatment to wellbeing promotion.
• New assessment technologies are needed for this paradigm shift.
• Experience Sampling Method (ESM) tools offer self-monitoring of patient vulnerability and resilience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To redesign an existing ESM data collection platform for family medicine.
• To improve functional analysis and disease management for psychological assistants to the general practitioner (PAGPs).

Main Methods:

• A design thinking framework guided the redesign in three phases: understand, explore, and materialize.
• Psychological assistants to the general practitioner (PAGPs) were involved in co-creation sessions.
• Methods included nominal group technique, empathy mapping, and moderated user testing, followed by a 4-month clinical practice test.

Main Results:

• PAGPs highlighted the value of moment-to-moment assessment of mood and behavior in daily life.
• Key user requirements identified for improvement included motivational functionalities, technological performance, and instructions.
• Barriers to platform implementation were encountered, including insufficient facilitation and support.

Conclusions:

• Co-creation yielded valuable insights into family medicine needs for the ESM platform.
• Significant barriers related to healthcare professional time, knowledge, and skills hinder platform uptake.
• Future research should focus on the platform's applicability in family medicine, incorporating patient perspectives.