Digital vs paper data collection: benefits for in-hospital haemodialysis patients

Patients on haemodialysis (HD) face complex care pathways, high treatment burden and reduced quality-of-life. A reliable method of assessing and collecting patient-related outcome measures (PROMs) has proven difficult. We asked what the benefits and disadvantages of digital data collection over paper with this population are. Working with multidisciplinary domain experts in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board (Scotland) over several iterative development cycles we designed, developed, and evaluate a system with HD patients. A case study was conducted with multidisciplinary experts and patients, using interviews (n=20) combined with the System Usability Scale (n=26). Patients' feedback and system use observations were used to further refine the system design requirements and functionalities. A wide preference for tablet-based input vs paper was noted and self-completed digital data collection overcame situational impairment and promoted patient independence and privacy. Perceived value must be maintained to secure engagement and conventional alternatives offered where appropriate.