A simple composite dynamic digital tool to communicate complex physical and mental health needs and measure outcomes: The Cornwall health radar

Abstract

IntroductionClinician-patient communication is a major factor in influencing outcomes of healthcare. Complexity increases if an individual has multiple health needs requiring support of different clinicians or agencies.AimTo develop and evidence a simple dynamic computerised tool to capture and communicate outcomes of intervention or alteration in clinical need in patients with multiple chronic health needs.MethodA MS Excel algorithm was designed for swift capture of clinical information discussed in an appointment using pre-designed set of evidenced based domains. An instant personalized single screen visual is produced to facilitate information sharing and decision-making. The display is responsive to compare changes across time. A prototype was conceptually tested in an epilepsy clinic for people with Intellectual disability (ID) due to the unique challenges posed in this population.ResultsEvidence across 300 patients with ID and epilepsy showed the tool works by enhancing reflective communication, compliance and therapeutic relationship. Medication and appointment compliance was 95% and patient satisfaction over 90%.ConclusionTo discuss all influencing health factors in a consultation is a communication challenge esp. if the patient has multiple health needs. A picture equals 1000 words and helps address the cognitive complexity of verbal information. The radar offers an evidenced based common framework to host care plans of different health conditions. It provides individualised easy view person centred care plans to allow patients to gain insight on how the different conditions impact on their overall well being and be active participants. The tool will be practically demonstrated.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.