ChiroSCOPE (Chiropractic Systematic Clinical Observation of Practice Evidence): preliminary evaluation of a web application for data collection within a clinical research network: a mixed methods pilot study.

Abstract

Background: Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) face challenges including time constraints, workflow disruption, and lack of standardized data collection protocols. We evaluated the usability of "Patient Progress," a web application designed to support PBRN data collection among Canadian chiropractors and their patients.

Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used. Ten chiropractors piloted the application over six months, collecting patient-reported outcome measures and clinical data from 60 patients. Patient usability was assessed via the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ); chiropractor perspectives were explored through semi-structured interviews analyzed thematically.

Results: Patients rated overall usability highly (mean 6.63/7). Chiropractor interviews identified key implementation barriers: lack of integration with existing practice management software, bilingual interface issues, questionnaire length, and recruitment challenges.

Conclusion: "Patient Progress" shows promise for PBRN data collection in chiropractic practice. Wider implementation requires seamless integration with existing software systems, interface improvements, and value-added clinical features to incentivize practitioner participation.