Using health communication best practices to develop a web-based provider–patient communication aid: The CONNECT™ study

Abstract

Objective-Although there is broad consensus that careful content vetting and user testing is important in the development of technology-based educational interventions, often these steps are overlooked. This paper highlights the development of a theory-guided, web-based communication aid (CONNECT™), designed to facilitate treatment decision making among patients with advanced cancer.Methods-The communication aid included an online survey, patient skills training module and an automated physician report. Development steps included: 1) evidence-based content development, 2) usability testing, 3) pilot testing, and 4) patient utilization and satisfaction.Results-Usability testing identified some confusing directions and navigation for the on-line survey and validated the relevance of the "patient testimonials" in the skills module. Preliminary satisfaction from the implementation of the communication aid showed that 66% found the survey length reasonable and 70% found it helpful in talking with the physician. Seventy percent reported the skills module helpful and about half found it affected the consultation.Conclusion-Designing patient education interventions for translation into practice requires the integration of health communication best practice including user feedback along the developmental process.Practice Implications-This developmental process can be translated to a broad array of community based patient and provider educational interventions.

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