Rheumatic? A diagnostic decision support tool for individuals suspecting rheumatic diseases: Mixed-methods usability...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Digital Health
• Patient Triage

Background:

• Early diagnosis of inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs) is crucial to prevent joint damage and optimize treatment.
• Conventional diagnostic pathways often lead to delays of several months.
• Symptom checkers (SCs) offer potential for validated symptom assessment and improved triage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the usability and acceptability of the SC Rheumatic? in individuals with suspected IRDs.

Main Methods:

• 105 individuals with suspected IRDs completed the Rheumatic? SC and an evaluation questionnaire (SUS, NPS).
• 14 participants underwent qualitative telephone interviews for further insights.

Main Results:

• Rheumatic? achieved a good usability score (SUS: 78±16), with younger participants reporting higher scores (p<0.03).
• Acceptability was lower (NPS: -15), with qualitative data highlighting the need for enhanced user engagement and perceived value.
• User experiences varied, with some reporting increased symptom awareness and others no perceived difference.

Conclusions:

• Rheumatic? demonstrates good usability, particularly for younger users.
• Qualitative feedback provides actionable insights for improving acceptability and user satisfaction.
• Implementation of Rheumatic? could enhance triage efficiency, reduce diagnostic delays, and optimize resource allocation.