Engagement of medication users in the development and implementation of digital medication adherence technologies: a multi-stakeholder study.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to create a comprehensive framework for the development and implementation of digital medication adherence technologies (DMATech), focusing on critical stages where engagement of medication users (MU) is considered meaningful, i.e. adds significant value, as agreed upon by participating stakeholders. METHODS: Through a literature review and expert consensus, a framework was outlined covering key DMATech development and implementation phases and steps. An in-person workshop with MU representatives and adherence experts, using the Nominal Group Technique, further refined these stages for MU engagement. RESULTS: The DMATech framework included three phases: 'Innovation,' 'Research and Development,' and 'Launch and Implementation,' each encompassing multiple steps. The workshop, attended by five MU representatives and nine adherence experts, identified critical stages for MU input including context analysis, ideation, proof of concept, prototype creation, DMATech's iteration, critical evaluation, healthcare implementation, real-world assessment, and improvement. Nevertheless, there was a divergence of consensus regarding the importance of MUs engagement in regulatory, financial, and marketing aspects. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a holistic framework for DMATech development and implementation and underscores the necessity of MU engagement at various stages. Modes of MU engagement cannot be generalized; a case-by-case evaluation of engagement strategies is essential.

The state of consumer health information: an overview.

BACKGROUND: Consumer health information is becoming increasingly important and health policy in the UK is beginning to reflect this. This has implications for information producers, providers and users, with the move towards a more patient-centred health service. OBJECTIVES: This review aims to provide a broad overview of the current state of consumer health information in the UK. It examines the changing roles of information producers, providers and users, exploring the impact of health literacy and new technologies. It features some of the current library and consumer health information projects taking place in the UK and discusses the role that libraries may play in the future. METHODS: The article focuses on consumer health information in a policy context. It is based on the experiences of the authors' work for the Patient Information Forum and knowledge of consumer health information. A number of library and information professionals were consulted regarding the library and information projects. CONCLUSIONS: Communication between health professionals and patients, and between health educators and the public, is key in order for consumer health information to have the ability to improve health outcomes. Further, especially local, investment into the production, distribution and delivery of consumer health information is recommended.

Patient information: Part 5. Quality standards and evaluation.

In the final paper in this series on producing patient information, we look at how to ensure that the information you have created is of high quality by using tools designed for the purpose. Piloting your document and disseminating and evaluating the final product are also discussed.

Patient information: Part 2. Planning an information package.

In the second article of this series we look at the planning stage of a project to produce patient information and the factors that should be considered. The paper also discusses guidelines for the production of patient information and legal aspects of information provision.

Patient information: Part 1. Why provide information?

In many environments, providing patients with information is a key role of health professionals. The first article in the series on producing patient information looks at the increasing recognition that better informed patients can make more informed choice about their health.