Modifications to the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) coding scheme: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Communication Studies
• Health Services Research
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• The Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) is a standard for analyzing clinical communication.
• Researchers often adapt RIAS, but modification methods and reasons are not well-documented.
• Lack of standardization in RIAS modifications hinders cross-study comparisons and interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe modifications made to the RIAS coding scheme in published research.
• To understand the scope, reasons, and documentation of RIAS adaptations.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review of empirical studies reporting RIAS adaptations.
• Searches conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science.
• Narrative synthesis to summarize modifications (additions, reductions, combinations).

Main Results:

• 27 studies reported RIAS modifications out of 551 identified.
• 159 new codes were added, predominantly task-focused (71%) and question-related.
• Modifications were driven by scope expansion, study setting, and practical needs; shortening was common.
• Most studies failed to document their modification process or tool assessment.

Conclusions:

• RIAS modifications are prevalent but inconsistently documented, challenging reproducibility.
• Streamlining RIAS and standardizing modification procedures are needed.
• Adhering to research methods and psychometric testing ensures reliability, validity, and transparency.