Web-Based Guidance Through Assisted Reproductive Technology (myFertiCare): Patient-Centered App Development and...

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Digital Health
• Patient Support Systems

Background:

• Patient-centered fertility care enhances quality of life and reduces psychological distress.
• A prior study identified the need for a web-based application for couples undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with surgically retrieved sperm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, develop, and qualitatively evaluate a multifaceted web-based application for infertile couples undergoing ICSI with surgically retrieved sperm.
• To provide personalized information and interactive functionalities throughout the treatment trajectory.

Main Methods:

• The web-based app was developed in three phases: patient-centered functional design, collaborative development with medical and technical professionals, and qualitative evaluation using a think-aloud method.
• The app's core feature is a visualized treatment trajectory for couples.

Main Results:

• The myFertiCare app was highly appreciated by users, achieving a median score of 8 out of 10 during qualitative evaluation.
• Key improvements identified during think-aloud sessions included faster login procedures and enhanced app navigation.

Conclusions:

• A patient-centered web-based application was systematically designed, developed, and positively evaluated.
• The app effectively guides couples through their fertility treatment journey, demonstrating its value in patient support.