TOPIC: eHealth Research Paper on Usability
Topic: Usability (choose a specific health area, e.g. diabetes or depression, and see what IT tools have been used and other peer-reviewed research) Step 1: Prepare your Bibliography 1. Develop an eHealth thesis or question you want to investigate. 2. Search for peer reviewed journal articles that investigates this topic (keep track of the databases used and the term paper found to develop the PRISMA diagram) 3. Read the articles carefully 4. Summarize your readings Only work on these sections as it is a group project: 2. Abstract Clearly and concisely (150 – 300 words) states the paper’s purpose, methods, results and conclusions 3. Executive Summary A short review of the paper which is defining the problem and it is engaging, and thought provoking. It makes sense even if someone didn’t read the original report. 4. Introduction The introduction should be engaging, states the main topic, and previews the structure of the paper. Clearly states the paper’s purpose. (Bold the thesis statement) 5. Methods Clear and precise description on how the research was performed. List of all the databases searched and keywords. Include a PRISMA diagram. Format: Paper: Each group will develop a paper that is single-spaced 5 pages long (typed with 12-points font and 1” margins). This page limit excludes cover page, table of contents and references. The content of the paper should be organized under following headings: • Cover page (title, name, course name, instructor, term) • Introduction (i.e., your eHealth application, such as PHR); • Brief overview of case (i.e., what your case study is about and what did it find); • Discussion (i.e., in Favor or Against your eHealth application) by incorporating literature review in a coherent manner and/or creating themes; • Conclusion; and • References. The references style must follow the APA style
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It is important to consider usability when designing and implementing eHealth tools, as this can have a significant impact on the user experience and the effectiveness of the tool in improving patient outcomes. Usability refers to the ease with which a user can learn and use a tool, and it is a key factor in determining the success of an eHealth intervention.
There are several aspects of usability that are particularly important in the context of eHealth tools. These include:
Learnability: The ease with which a user can learn to use the tool.
Efficacy: The effectiveness of the tool in achieving the intended goals.
Efficiency: The speed with which the user can complete tasks using the tool.
Satisfaction: The degree to which the user finds the tool enjoyable and satisfying to use.
Error prevention and recovery: The ability of the tool to prevent errors and allow for easy recovery if an error does occur.
To ensure that an eHealth tool is usable, it is important to consider these aspects of usability during the design and development process. This might involve conducting user testing to gather feedback on the tool, incorporating user-centered design principles, and using established usability guidelines and best practices.
In your research paper on the usability of eHealth tools, you might consider exploring specific case studies or examples of eHealth interventions that have successfully addressed usability issues, or examining the impact of usability on patient outcomes in different health areas. You could also consider the role of user-centered design in the development of eHealth tools, or the challenges and barriers that can arise when implementing eHealth interventions.
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In the health area of diabetes, a variety of IT tools have been developed and used to Help with management and self-care. These tools can help individuals with diabetes to track their blood glucose levels, monitor their diet and exercise, and manage their medications. Some examples of IT tools that have been used in the management of diabetes include:
Mobile apps: There are a variety of mobile apps available that allow individuals with diabetes to track their blood glucose levels, log their meals and physical activity, and set reminders for medication.
Wearable devices: Wearable devices, such as smart watches and fitness trackers, can help individuals with diabetes to monitor their physical activity and sleep patterns, as well as track their blood glucose levels.
Telemedicine: Telemedicine platforms allow individuals with diabetes to receive virtual care from healthcare providers, such as consulting with a healthcare professional or receiving guidance on self-management.
Peer-reviewed research has also explored the effectiveness and usability of these IT tools in the management of diabetes. For example, a study published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that a mobile app designed to help individuals with diabetes manage their blood glucose levels was effective in improving glycemic control. Another study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that telemedicine interventions were effective in improving the self-management skills of individuals with diabetes.
IT tools have the potential to greatly Help with the management and self-care of diabetes, and peer-reviewed research has demonstrated their effectiveness in improving glycemic control and self-management skills.
