How to evaluate user experience in digital health? A scoping review of questionnaires in virtual reality applications

The exponential growth and integration of virtual reality technology in clinical environments necessitates a comprehensive user experience evaluation. This assessment is critical for clinical populations and geriatric cohorts presenting peculiar needs and expectations. Despite the longstanding conceptual framework of user experience, a consensus regarding its definition and optimal evaluation methodologies remains elusive, especially within healthcare contexts. This systematic scoping review examines state-of-the-art questionnaire-based instruments for assessing user experience in healthcare virtual reality applications, synthesizing current evaluation approaches and identifying key user experience dimensions. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Review guidelines, we analyzed articles employing questionnaires to evaluate user experience in virtual reality-based health applications for adults. Following a meticulous screening process of 325 papers across PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases, 17 studies met our inclusion criteria. Studies predominantly used multiple and diverse questionnaires exploring several dimensions. Eight key user experience dimensions emerged: usability and functionality, aesthetics of design, engagement, emotional state, presence, realism of environments, side effects, and motivation and intention of use. Current evaluation lacks standardization and theoretical consistency. We propose a comprehensive eight-domain framework and recommend integrating multidisciplinary expertise, implementing longitudinal evaluation approaches, and developing psychometrically validated instruments. These findings provide essential guidance for improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery efficacy through optimized virtual reality-based implementation.