Re-imagining the future state of the ventricular assist device controller interface through human-centered design.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Medical Device Design

Background:

• Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are crucial for end-stage heart failure but current controllers have interface limitations.
• Existing VAD controller interfaces negatively impact patient experience and quality of life (QoL).
• A human-centered design approach is needed to improve VAD controller emotional and functional aspects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore redesign opportunities for VAD controllers using a human-centered design methodology.
• To enhance the emotional and functional user experience of VAD devices for patients.
• To identify key patient concerns for future VAD controller development.

Main Methods:

• Conducted interviews with VAD patients (n=21), caregivers (n=4), and healthcare practitioners (n=24) to identify design opportunities.
• Utilized a 'design by analogy' method, drawing inspiration from consumer products for VAD wearable system functionality.
• Developed and evaluated future-state concepts for VAD controller interfaces and paired wearable devices with additional patients and caregivers.

Main Results:

• Validated the need for enhanced automation and emergency features in VAD controllers.
• Highlighted requirements for remote data monitoring, accurate battery status communication, and automated critical device alarms.
• Identified key patient concerns: 'Manage my health,' 'Feeling normal,' 'Social belonging,' 'Feeling safe,' and 'Sense of control'.

Conclusions:

• This study presents an innovative approach to improve the usability of VAD peripherals.
• Integrating emotional and functional perspectives in VAD design can significantly improve patient QoL.
• Device manufacturers can leverage user-centered design to enhance patient experiences with VADs.