From Paper to Pixels: Digital Transition of a Patient Decision Aid—A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective

To convert a generic paper-based patient decision aid (PtDA) into digital format and assess its usability through α and β testing, recognizing the growing role of digital health technologies in empowering patients in shared decision-making.

Patients and Methods

After a systematic PtDA development process in the period 2020-2022, the conversion process included scoping, prototyping, design, and testing phases. An α test evaluated internal usability, whereas 2 β tests explored the feasibility for breast and colorectal cancer patients preconsultation and postconsultation on adjuvant therapy using the preparation for decision-making scale.

Results

Seven PtDA experts gave positive feedback on the quality of the digital PtDA in the α test. The 6 patients who participated in the preconsultation β test were positive about the purpose and ease of use of the digital PtDA and rated decision preparation on a scale of 0-100 with a mean score of 81.3, whereas the postconsultation β test with 10 patients reported an overall mean score of 72.0. The conversion involved several iterative design processes, showing potential for high adoption and uptake due to its convenience and accessibility before and after the consultation.

Conclusion

The digital PtDA provides a user-friendly solution for patients. Overall, the conversion of a paper-based PtDA to a digital format proved successful, and the test results were promising. Further research is recommended to test the digital version on a large scale.