Abstract
Purpose :
The CAT-EyeQ is an instrument that measures vision-related quality of life (Vr-QoL) in patients with exudative retinal diseases. In previous research we focused on the development and calibration of the EyeQ-46 item bank and through simulations we investigated the accuracy of the computer adaptive test: the CAT-EyeQ. The aim of this study was to investigate the implementation process of the CAT-EyeQ in clinical practice addressed by different stakeholders. We focused on the usability of the CAT-EyeQ and identified potential barriers and facilitators for implementation.
Methods :
Patients (n=10) and health care professionals (n=6) from two eye hospitals participated in the usability study. The same healthcare professionals and clinic managers (n=2) were included in the ‘problem analysis for implementation’ study. In total, we conducted 18 semi-structured interviews with these participants. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to develop the interview guides and to structure results: themes were linked to CFIR constructs. Data was analyzed using SPSS and MAXQDA software.
Results :
Six themes could be derived from the usability study and problem analysis: quality of the CAT-EyeQ and the applicability to patients’ needs and preferences (1), embedding the CAT-EyeQ in current practice (2), implementation climate of the eye hospitals (3), attitude of professionals (4), engaging and encouraging professionals (5), and integration of the CAT-EyeQ in health care – needs after pilot-study (6). We linked potential barriers and facilitators for implementation to 18 CFIR constructs, e.g. difference in workflows between locations (possible barrier) was linked to the construct Structural Characteristics and an integration of CAT-EyeQ results in the in the electronic health record (facilitator), was linked to the construct Access to Knowledge & Information.
Conclusions :
Both patients and professionals consider the CAT-EyeQ to be a valuable tool as it allows measurement and provides insight into the impact of exudative retinal diseases on daily life. Moreover, the instrument was found to be supportive in putting more emphasis on the patient's perspective in eye healthcare by providing a structured measurement of Vr-QoL. The overview of barriers and facilitators can be helpful for the development of an implementation plan.
This abstract was presented at the 2023 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in New Orleans, LA, April 23-27, 2023.