Digital Navigation: A UX Pilot Study in the Context of Pain Management

Chronic pain greatly affects quality of life. Although digital self-management tools show promise, adoption remains limited without the help of human support to implement it. This study assessed the impact of a digital navigator (DN) follow-up on chronic pain patients using a self-management app. Twenty-six participants evaluated the effect of DN follow-up and used a pain management app over three months. Although hospital experience remained stable, a statistically significant improvement was observed in patients' perceived ability to ask questions. Participants reported greater digital confidence and perceived support. DN may strengthen engagement and communication in chronic pain management. The findings suggest that combining human support with digital tools may enhance patient engagement, an approach that merits further investigations in larger studies.