Abstract
Background There is a lack of psychological support for individuals with skin conditions, and few low-intensity self-help interventions are available. Objective This study aimed to test the acceptability and usability of a support website and its embedded self-help resources. Methods A mixed methods approach was utilized. A total of 583 participants (426 with a skin condition, 97 relatives and friends, and 60 dermatology professionals) viewed the British Association of Dermatologist’s SkinSupport website and then completed a survey about their well-being and the usability of the website. A comparison group comprising 816 participants also completed the well-being measures. In total, 37 participants (19 living with a skin condition, and the relatives and friends of individuals with a skin condition, and 18 dermatology professionals) viewed the SkinSupport website and then took part in focus groups. Participants were recruited via social media, professional networks, and volunteer lists. Data from the survey were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and qualitative content analysis. Results Both quantitative and qualitative responses suggest that the SkinSupport website was viewed positively by both patients and health professionals. Overall, 79.8% (417/523) of individuals with a skin condition, and the relatives and friends of individuals with a skin condition, said that they would use the website again; and 86.7% (52/60) of dermatology professionals said that they would recommend the site to somebody with a skin condition. Qualitative responses related to the website fell into 4 key themes: (1) appearance, (2) use and navigation, (3) information, and (4) areas for development. Conclusions The SkinSupport website was considered acceptable and usable. A range of areas requiring modification were identified. The website provides a useful resource that patients can access freely. Given the lack of services available to patients with skin conditions, health care professionals could routinely inform patients of this resource at assessment.
Highlights
BackgroundSkin conditions are common, affecting 54% of the UK population in any 12-month period [1]
This study aimed to examine the acceptability and usability of the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) SkinSupport website for people living with skin conditions and their relatives and friends
816 participants completed the web-based survey as part of the comparison group and 583 participants completed the web-based survey as part of the evaluation group (426 participants living with a skin condition, 97 relatives and friends of individuals living with skin conditions, and 60 dermatology professionals)
Summary
BackgroundSkin conditions are common, affecting 54% of the UK population in any 12-month period [1]. Support websites and interventions exist for the group more broadly described as having a visible difference, many individuals with a skin condition will not identify themselves as having a visible difference and may, not find, or feel targeted by, such resources. A total of 583 participants (426 with a skin condition, 97 relatives and friends, and 60 dermatology professionals) viewed the British Association of Dermatologist’s SkinSupport website and completed a survey about their well-being and the usability of the website. 37 participants (19 living with a skin condition, and the relatives and friends of individuals with a skin condition, and 18 dermatology professionals) viewed the SkinSupport website and took part in focus groups. Results: Both quantitative and qualitative responses suggest that the SkinSupport website was viewed positively by both patients and health professionals. Given the lack of services available to patients with skin conditions, health care professionals could routinely inform patients of this resource at assessment
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