Development of a web-based patient decision aid for myopia laser correction method

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Informatics
• Patient Education

Background:

• Patient Decision Aids (PtDAs) are crucial for shared decision-making (SDM) in patient-centered care.
• Myopia is prevalent, necessitating informed choices for laser correction procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a Patient Decision Aid (PDA) for myopia patients considering laser correction.
• To provide comprehensive, accessible information to support informed decision-making regarding myopia laser surgery.

Main Methods:

• The study followed the IPDAS process model, including scoping, design, prototype development, and alpha testing.
• Semi-structured interviews with patients and ophthalmologists informed the development of a comparison table of harms and benefits.
• A web-based prototype (PDAIN) was developed, refined based on user feedback, and reviewed by a health education expert.

Main Results:

• Patient concerns included pain, daily activities, return to work, need for glasses, prescription stability, and complications.
• The PDAIN tool received high ratings for user-centricity (46/50), usability (47/50), and accuracy/reliability (45/50).
• User feedback confirmed the tool effectively improved understanding and influenced decision-making for myopia laser correction options.

Conclusions:

• PDAIN is an effective tool for facilitating informed decision-making for myopic patients considering corneal laser correction.
• The tool empowers nearsighted individuals to make well-informed choices about their laser vision correction procedures.