A qualitative study showing that a telecare tool can have benefits before and during the initial hearing assessment appointment

Abstract

Objective To examine patient and audiologist experiences and perspectives of using a patient-centred telecare tool, the Ida Institute’s Why Improve My Hearing? (WIMH) Tool, before and during the initial hearing assessment appointment. Design A qualitative study comprising individual semi-structured interviews using a maximum variation sampling strategy. The data were analysed using an established thematic analysis technique. Study sample Fifteen participants, including ten patients (i.e. adults with hearing loss) and five audiologists, were recruited from Adult Audiology Services within the United Kingdom’s publicly-funded National Health Service (NHS). Results Three themes described the impact of using the WIMH Tool. Theme 1 (i.e. enhanced preparation before the appointment): the Tool helps patients to better understand and accept their hearing difficulties in advance of their first appointment. Theme 2 (i.e. enriched discussion during the appointment): the tool can enhance patient-centred communication, as well as the efficiency of the appointment. Theme 3 (i.e. varied impact on outcomes following the appointment): the Tool can improve patient motivation, readiness, and involvement in decision-making, though it may have limited impact on additional outcomes, such as adherence. Conclusion The WIMH Tool can be successfully implemented in audiological practice, resulting in benefits before and during the initial hearing assessment appointment.