Using digital technologies to diagnose in the home: recommendations from a Delphi panel

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Medical Diagnostics
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Digital technology advances enable diagnostic tools to move beyond traditional clinical settings.
• Healthcare diagnostics are increasingly accessible outside of hospitals and clinics.
• The integration of novel diagnostic solutions into community and home settings is accelerating.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop consensus-based recommendations for the creation and implementation of digital diagnostic technologies outside traditional clinical environments.
• To provide guidance for stakeholders on integrating innovative diagnostic solutions into diverse healthcare settings.
• To establish a roadmap for the effective deployment of emerging diagnostic capabilities.

Main Methods:

• The Delphi method, a structured consensus-building technique, was employed.
• Expert consensus was achieved through iterative rounds of consultation and feedback.
• A panel of stakeholders participated in the Delphi process to generate recommendations.

Main Results:

• Twenty-nine consensus-based recommendations were generated through the Delphi process.
• The recommendations address key aspects of developing and deploying digital diagnostics.
• These findings offer valuable insights for the practical implementation of out-of-clinic diagnostic tools.

Conclusions:

• The developed recommendations provide a framework for integrating digital diagnostics into non-traditional healthcare settings.
• Stakeholders can utilize these guidelines to navigate the complexities of implementing novel diagnostic solutions.
• This work facilitates the broader adoption of accessible and innovative diagnostic technologies.