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Wegener EK, M Bergschöld J, Kramer T, Schmidt CW, Borgnakke K. Co-Designing a Conversational Agent With Older Adults With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Who Age in Place: Qualitative Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e63222. [PMID: 39378067 DOI: 10.2196/63222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a reaction to the global demographic increase in older adults (aged 60+ years), policy makers call for initiatives to enable healthy aging. This includes a focus on person-centered care and access to long-term care for older adults, such as developing different services and digital health technologies. This can enable patients to engage in their health and reduce the burden on the health care systems and health care professionals. The European Union project Smart Inclusive Living Environments (SMILE) focuses on well-being and aging in place using new digital health technologies. The novelty of the SMILE project is the use of a cocreational approach focused on the needs and preferences of older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in technology development, to enhance access, adaptation, and usability and to reduce stigma. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to describe the perspective, needs, and preferences of older adults living with COPD in the context of the design and development of a conversational agent. METHODS This study carried out a data-driven thematic analysis of interview data from 11 cocreation workshops with 33 older adults living with COPD. RESULTS The three particular features that the workshop participants wanted to implement in a new technology were (1) a "my health" function, to use technology to manage and learn more about their condition; (2) a "daily activities" function, including an overview and information about social and physical activities in their local area; and (3) a "sleep" function, to manage circadian rhythm and enhance sleep quality, for example, through online video guides. In total, 2 overarching themes were identified for the 3 functions: measurements, which were actively discussed and received mixed interest among the participants, and health literacy, due to an overall interest in learning more about their condition in relation to everyday life. CONCLUSIONS The future design of digital health technology must embrace the complexities of the everyday life of an older adult living with COPD and cater to their needs and preferences. Measurements should be optional and personalized, and digital solutions should be used as a supplement to health care professionals, not as substitute.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tina Kramer
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
| | | | - Karen Borgnakke
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
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Baron R, Haick H. Mobile Diagnostic Clinics. ACS Sens 2024; 9:2777-2792. [PMID: 38775426 PMCID: PMC11217950 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
This article reviews the revolutionary impact of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping modern healthcare systems, with a particular focus on the implementation of mobile diagnostic clinics. It presents an insightful analysis of the current healthcare challenges, including the shortage of healthcare workers, financial constraints, and the limitations of traditional clinics in continual patient monitoring. The concept of "Mobile Diagnostic Clinics" is introduced as a transformative approach where healthcare delivery is made accessible through the incorporation of advanced technologies. This approach is a response to the impending shortfall of medical professionals and the financial and operational burdens conventional clinics face. The proposed mobile diagnostic clinics utilize digital health tools and AI to provide a wide range of services, from everyday screenings to diagnosis and continual monitoring, facilitating remote and personalized care. The article delves into the potential of nanotechnology in diagnostics, AI's role in enhancing predictive analytics, diagnostic accuracy, and the customization of care. Furthermore, the article discusses the importance of continual, noninvasive monitoring technologies for early disease detection and the role of clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) in personalizing treatment guidance. It also addresses the challenges and ethical concerns of implementing these advanced technologies, including data privacy, integration with existing healthcare infrastructure, and the need for transparent and bias-free AI systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roni Baron
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Technion—Israel
Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Hossam Haick
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and the Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
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3
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Song S, Seo Y, Hwang S, Kim HY, Kim J. Digital Phenotyping of Geriatric Depression Using a Community-Based Digital Mental Health Monitoring Platform for Socially Vulnerable Older Adults and Their Community Caregivers: 6-Week Living Lab Single-Arm Pilot Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2024; 12:e55842. [PMID: 38885033 PMCID: PMC11217709 DOI: 10.2196/55842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the increasing need for digital services to support geriatric mental health, the development and implementation of digital mental health care systems for older adults have been hindered by a lack of studies involving socially vulnerable older adult users and their caregivers in natural living environments. OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine whether digital sensing data on heart rate variability, sleep quality, and physical activity can predict same-day or next-day depressive symptoms among socially vulnerable older adults in their everyday living environments. In addition, this study tested the feasibility of a digital mental health monitoring platform designed to inform older adult users and their community caregivers about day-to-day changes in the health status of older adults. METHODS A single-arm, nonrandomized living lab pilot study was conducted with socially vulnerable older adults (n=25), their community caregivers (n=16), and a managerial social worker over a 6-week period during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Depressive symptoms were assessed daily using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire via scripted verbal conversations with a mobile chatbot. Digital biomarkers for depression, including heart rate variability, sleep, and physical activity, were measured using a wearable sensor (Fitbit Sense) that was worn continuously, except during charging times. Daily individualized feedback, using traffic signal signs, on the health status of older adult users regarding stress, sleep, physical activity, and health emergency status was displayed on a mobile app for the users and on a web application for their community caregivers. Multilevel modeling was used to examine whether the digital biomarkers predicted same-day or next-day depressive symptoms. Study staff conducted pre- and postsurveys in person at the homes of older adult users to monitor changes in depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and system usability. RESULTS Among the 31 older adult participants, 25 provided data for the living lab and 24 provided data for the pre-post test analysis. The multilevel modeling results showed that increases in daily sleep fragmentation (P=.003) and sleep efficiency (P=.001) compared with one's average were associated with an increased risk of daily depressive symptoms in older adults. The pre-post test results indicated improvements in depressive symptoms (P=.048) and sleep quality (P=.02), but not in the system usability (P=.18). CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that wearable sensors assessing sleep quality may be utilized to predict daily fluctuations in depressive symptoms among socially vulnerable older adults. The results also imply that receiving individualized health feedback and sharing it with community caregivers may help improve the mental health of older adults. However, additional in-person training may be necessary to enhance usability. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06270121; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06270121.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunmi Song
- Department of Health and Environmental Science, Undergraduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - YoungBin Seo
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- BK21FOUR: L-HOPE Program for Community-Based Total Learning Health Systems, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - SeoYeon Hwang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- BK21FOUR: L-HOPE Program for Community-Based Total Learning Health Systems, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Young Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Healthcare Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- BK21FOUR: L-HOPE Program for Community-Based Total Learning Health Systems, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junesun Kim
- Department of Health and Environmental Science, Undergraduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- BK21FOUR: L-HOPE Program for Community-Based Total Learning Health Systems, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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4
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Gruiskens JRJH, van Hoef LFM, Theunissen MM, Courtens AM, Gidding-Slok AHM, van Schayck OCP, van den Beuken-van Everdingen MMHJ. Recommendations for Improving Chronic Care in Times of a Pandemic Based on Patient Experiences. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024; 25:623-632.e5. [PMID: 38000443 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound and pervasive impact on the health of chronic care patients and disrupted care systems worldwide. Our research aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic on chronic care provision and provide recommendations for improving care provision, based on patient experiences. DESIGN Qualitative semi-structured interviews were held among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Using stratified sampling, 23 patients with COPD, heart failure, or both were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. In the summer of 2021, online interviews were conducted. METHODS An iterative process was adopted to analyze the data. Going back and forth through the data and our analytical structure, we first coded the data, and subsequently developed categories, themes, and aggregate dimensions. The data were synthesized in a data structure and a data table, which were analyzed using an interpretative approach. RESULTS We found 3 dimensions through which care might be improved: (1) proactive and adaptive health care organization and use of innovative technologies, (2) assistance in maintaining patient resilience and coping strategies, and (3) health care built on outreaching and person-centered care enabling identification of individual patient needs. Experiences of impaired accessibility to care, altered and unmet care demands and patient needs, and the negative impact of national containment strategies on patient resilience support the need for improvement in these dimensions. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The in-depth insight gained on the impact of the pandemic on chronic care provision was used to propose recommendations for improving care, supported by not only the what and how but also the why developments require additional efforts made by policymakers and change agents, augmented by structural use and development of innovations. Health care organizations should be enabled to rapidly respond to changing internal and external environments, develop and implement innovations, and match care to patient needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen R J H Gruiskens
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Liesbeth F M van Hoef
- Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maurice M Theunissen
- Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annemie M Courtens
- Expertise Centre for Palliative Care, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annerika H M Gidding-Slok
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C P van Schayck
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Vaismoradi M, Rae J, Turunen H, Logan PA. Specialized nurses' role in ensuring patient safety within the context of telehealth in home care: A scoping review. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241287272. [PMID: 39381815 PMCID: PMC11459674 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241287272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Specialized nurses are uniquely positioned to implement innovative telehealth solutions to improve the quality and safety of home care, and this has become a focal point of contemporary healthcare research. This review aimed to identify the nature and scope of specialized nurses' roles in ensuring patient safety within the context of telehealth in home care. Methods A scoping review of the international literature was carried out from January 1, 2013, to August 29, 2024. The review employed Levac et al.'s framework to delineate the research phenomenon and consolidate existing empirical research findings. Through a comparative analysis, the review integrated findings from selected studies, highlighting both similarities and differences related to this phenomenon, which led to the development of distinct categories. Results The search yielded 1127 articles, from which 23 studies met the inclusion criteria for research synthesis and subsequent reporting of results. These studies spanned specialized nurses' roles in telehealth and various fields in which specialized nurses utilized telehealth to deliver high-quality and safe home care. The findings highlighted key outcomes linked to the improvement of patient safety in home care encompassing continuity of care, confidence in care, monitoring and early intervention, medication safety, engagement and adherence, and healthcare costs. Conclusions The review revealed the crucial role played by specialized nurses in harnessing telehealth in healthcare to meet the highest care standards, creating an environment that prioritizes the well-being and patient safety in home care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Vaismoradi
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
- Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Orange, NSW, Australia
| | - John Rae
- Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannele Turunen
- Department of Nursing Science, Kuopio University Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Patricia A. Logan
- Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW, Australia
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6
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Wijiseno B, Arini M, Listiowati E. Healthcare workers' acceptance of the integrated tuberculosis-COVID-19 screening in central Java Private Hospitals, Indonesia. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2023; 18:1311-1320. [PMID: 37256169 PMCID: PMC10204902 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2023.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the diagnosis and management of tuberculosis (TB) cases, and TB-COVID-19 integrated screening was introduced as a strategy to overcome these problems. This study determined the acceptability of the TB-COVID-19 integrated screening by healthcare workers (HCWs) and its impact on achievement of the TB program. Methods This was a mixed-method study with an embedded design. Data on hospital TB program coverage from the national TB information system for all Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Hospitals (MAHs) in Central Java were compared before and after the implementation of TB-COVID-19 integrated screening. The informants consisted of HCWs from 21 MAHs in Central Java. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out with 7 hospital TB, 19 emergency room, 10 outpatient, 6 inpatient, and 4 managerial staff. In-depth interview (IDIs) were also performed with the Technical Officer TB Recovery Head of the Muhammadiyah Center. All IDIs and FGDs were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to thematic analysis guided by the theoretical framework of acceptability (TFA). Result Implementation of the TB-COVID-19 integrated screening program led to an increase in the number of new TB case diagnoses at the Central Java Hospitals. Moreover, the program was acceptable based on seven indicators from TFA. Despite the obstacles faced by HCWs during the implementation process, the program still managed to meet the standards. Conclusion Acceptance by HCWs is a critical factor in the successful implementation of programs, including the TB-COVID-19 integrated screening. Furthermore, a multifaceted and cross-sectoral approach is required to address the constraints associated with the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bugar Wijiseno
- Master of Hospital Administration, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Merita Arini
- Master of Hospital Administration, Postgraduate Program, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ekorini Listiowati
- Family Medicine and Public Health Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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Braver J, Marwick TH, Oldenburg B, Issaka A, Carrington MJ. Digital Health Programs to Reduce Readmissions in Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JACC. ADVANCES 2023; 2:100591. [PMID: 38938339 PMCID: PMC11198697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2023.100591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Background The use of mobile health (mHealth, wireless communication devices, and/or software technologies) in health care delivery has increased rapidly in recent years. Their integration into disease management programs (DMPs) has tremendous potential to improve outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), yet a more robust evaluation of the evidence is required. Objectives The purpose of this study was to undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of mHealth-enabled DMPs to determine their effectiveness in reducing readmissions and mortality in patients with CAD. Methods We systematically searched English language studies from January 1, 2007, to August 3, 2021, in multiple databases. Studies comparing mHealth-enabled DMPs with standard DMPs without mHealth were included if they had a minimum 30-day follow-up for at least one of all-cause or cardiovascular-related mortality, readmissions, or major adverse cardiovascular events. Results Of the 3,411 references from our search, 155 full-text studies were assessed for eligibility, and data were extracted from 18 publications. Pooled findings for all-cause readmissions (10 studies, n = 1,514) and cardiac-related readmissions (9 studies, n = 1,009) indicated that mHealth-enabled DMPs reduced all-cause (RR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.50-0.91) and cardiac-related hospitalizations (RR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.44-0.68) and emergency department visits (RR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.26-0.54) compared to DMPs without mHealth. There was no significant reduction for mortality outcomes (RR: 1.72; 95% CI: 0.64-4.64) or major adverse cardiovascular events (RR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.40-1.15). Conclusions DMPs integrated with mHealth should be considered an effective intervention for better outcomes in patients with CAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Braver
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Pre-Clinical Disease and Prevention Unit, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thomas H. Marwick
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Pre-Clinical Disease and Prevention Unit, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brian Oldenburg
- Non-Communicable Diseases and Implementation Science Unit, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Victoria, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ayuba Issaka
- Non-Communicable Diseases and Implementation Science Unit, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Victoria, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Melinda J. Carrington
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Pre-Clinical Disease and Prevention Unit, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Victoria, Australia
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Fleisher L, Kenny C, Rusten C, Koren D, Landau Z. Right Information, Right Patient, Right Time: Utilizing the MyCareCompass Platform to Deliver Patient Education in the Oncology Setting. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2023; 38:1420-1428. [PMID: 37540339 PMCID: PMC10509046 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-023-02350-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Patient education is an important part of cancer care as it increases patient activation and informed decision-making, reduces anxiety, and improves outcomes. However, challenges to providing appropriate education to patients exist on both the health provider and patient side of the equation, e.g., time constraints and health literacy issues. Digital health education is a fast-growing field of interest that has been shown to improve health outcomes, increase effectiveness of medical treatments and education, lower medical costs, and enhance both clinical diagnosis and research opportunities by streamlining data collection, sharing, and analysis. In 2019, Fox Chase Cancer Center was selected by ARCHES, an established patient education software company, to pilot its award-winning digital patient engagement system MyCareCompass. During the pilot, patients scheduled for port insertions were sent electronic messages inviting them to review various online educational materials related to their procedure and subsequent concerns. The invitations and resources were seamlessly integrated into the scheduling system and timed to arrive when patients would most need them. There was high usage of the port-related materials and patients reported a high level of satisfaction with the delivery system and the information. This automated process of delivering high-quality and relevant patient education was able to be implemented smoothly with IT involvement, had a positive impact on patients without adding any extra burden to the care team, and highlighted opportunities to integrate these types of interventions into routine care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Fleisher
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cancer Prevention and Control, PA Philadelphia, USA
| | - Cassidy Kenny
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cancer Prevention and Control, PA Philadelphia, USA
| | | | | | - Zoe Landau
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cancer Prevention and Control, PA Philadelphia, USA
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Zhou S, Silvasstar J, Clark C, Salyers AJ, Chavez C, Bull SS. An artificially intelligent, natural language processing chatbot designed to promote COVID-19 vaccination: A proof-of-concept pilot study. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231155679. [PMID: 36896332 PMCID: PMC9989411 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231155679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Our goal is to establish the feasibility of using an artificially intelligent chatbot in diverse healthcare settings to promote COVID-19 vaccination. Methods We designed an artificially intelligent chatbot deployed via short message services and web-based platforms. Guided by communication theories, we developed persuasive messages to respond to users' COVID-19-related questions and encourage vaccination. We implemented the system in healthcare settings in the U.S. between April 2021 and March 2022 and logged the number of users, topics discussed, and information on system accuracy in matching responses to user intents. We regularly reviewed queries and reclassified responses to better match responses to query intents as COVID-19 events evolved. Results A total of 2479 users engaged with the system, exchanging 3994 COVID-19 relevant messages. The most popular queries to the system were about boosters and where to get a vaccine. The system's accuracy rate in matching responses to user queries ranged from 54% to 91.1%. Accuracy lagged when new information related to COVID emerged, such as that related to the Delta variant. Accuracy increased when we added new content to the system. Conclusions It is feasible and potentially valuable to create chatbot systems using AI to facilitate access to current, accurate, complete, and persuasive information on infectious diseases. Such a system can be adapted to use with patients and populations needing detailed information and motivation to act in support of their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Zhou
- Department of Communication Studies, School of Communication and the System Health Lab, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong
| | - Joshva Silvasstar
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health and the mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Christopher Clark
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health and the mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA.,Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Adam J Salyers
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health and the mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Catia Chavez
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health and the mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sheana S Bull
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health and the mHealth Impact Lab, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO, USA
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Theurel A, Witt A, Shankland R. Promoting University Students' Mental Health through an Online Multicomponent Intervention during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191610442. [PMID: 36012078 PMCID: PMC9407816 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The mental health of university students is a serious public health issue. The alarming trend of high levels of untreated psychological distress observed during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for prevention programs. Digital tools are a promising means of delivering such programs. Web-based programs are acceptable and effective at improving mental health problems and general mental well-being. However, the usefulness of such digital prevention approaches to address the multiple issues raised by the COVID-19 pandemic needs to be tested. The current study assessed the effectiveness of an 8-week online intervention, integrating a variety of evidence-based strategies for improving French university students' mental health. Students were assigned to: (1) the online self-help program ETUCARE (n = 53), or (2) the control condition (n = 50). All the participants completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires that assessed mental health problems and psychological well-being. The findings revealed that, compared to the control group, participation in the online program was associated with higher levels of psychological well-being post-test and fewer clinical symptoms of psychological distress, anxiety, and alcohol consumption. These preliminary findings suggest that the ETUCARE program is a promising multicomponent intervention to buffer the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in French university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Theurel
- Instance Régionale D’éducation et de Promotion de la Santé, 21000 Dijon, France
- LEAD-CNRS (UMR 5022), Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 21000 Dijon, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Arnaud Witt
- LEAD-CNRS (UMR 5022), Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Rebecca Shankland
- Laboratory DIPHE, Department of Psychology, Education and Vulnerabilities, Université Lumière Lyon 2, 69676 Bron, France
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Krause-Parello CA, Flynn L, Hibler DA, Presciutti RE, Pratt BA, Walsh P, Garvin JT, Morse CY, Carter L, Moreno SJ. Social and Chronic Pain: Veterans Sharing a Path in Developing a Patient-Centered Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF VETERANS STUDIES 2022. [DOI: 10.21061/jvs.v8i1.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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van Agteren J, Ali K, Fassnacht DB, Iasiello M, Furber G, Howard A, Woodyatt L, Musker M, Kyrios M. Testing the Differential Impact of an Internet-Based Mental Health Intervention on Outcomes of Well-being and Psychological Distress During COVID-19: Uncontrolled Intervention Study. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e28044. [PMID: 34357876 PMCID: PMC8448081 DOI: 10.2196/28044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During COVID-19, the psychological distress and well-being of the general population has been precarious, increasing the need to determine the impact of complementary internet-based psychological interventions on both positive mental health as well as distress states. Psychological distress and mental well-being represent distinct dimensions of our mental health, and congruent changes in outcomes of distress and well-being do not necessarily co-occur within individuals. When testing intervention impact, it is therefore important to assess change in both outcomes at the individual level, rather than solely testing group differences in average scores at the group level. OBJECTIVE This study set out to investigate the differential impact of an internet-based group mental health intervention on outcomes of positive mental health (ie, well-being, life satisfaction, resilience) and indicators of psychological distress (ie, depression, anxiety, stress). METHODS A 5-week mental health intervention was delivered to 89 participants using the Zoom platform during 2020. Impact on outcomes of distress, well-being, and resilience was assessed at the start and end of the program with multiple analysis of variance (MANOVA) and reliable change indices (RCIs) being used to determine program impact at the group and individual levels, respectively. RESULTS The intervention significantly improved all mental health outcomes measured, (F6,83=5.60, P<.001; Wilks Λ=.71; partial η2=.29) showing small to moderate effect sizes on individual outcomes. The largest effect sizes were observed for life satisfaction and overall well-being (η2=.22 and η2=.2, respectively). Larger effect sizes were noted for those with problematic mental health scores at baseline. A total of 92% (82/89) of participants demonstrated reliable change in at least one mental health outcome. Differential response patterns using RCI revealed that more than one-half of the participants showed improvement in both mental well-being and psychological distress, over one-quarter in outcomes of well-being only, and almost one-fifth in distress only. CONCLUSIONS The results provide evidence for the significant impact of an internet-based mental health intervention during COVID-19 and indicate the importance of assessing dimensions of both well-being and distress when determining mental health intervention effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joep van Agteren
- Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
- Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kathina Ali
- Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
- Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Daniel B Fassnacht
- Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
- Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Matthew Iasiello
- Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
- Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Gareth Furber
- Health Counselling & Disability Services, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Alexis Howard
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lydia Woodyatt
- Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Michael Musker
- Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- Adelaide Nursing School, Adelaide University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Mike Kyrios
- Wellbeing and Resilience Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia
- Órama Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
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