Usability Evaluation of Diabetes MAP: An Internet-delivered Diabetes Medication Adherence Promotion Intervention

Abstract

Usability testing ensures users are able to effectively, efficiently, and satisfactorily interact with a website. We evaluated the usability of an Internet-delivered health promotion intervention called Diabetes MAP.

We recruited adult T2DM patients (N=32) prescribed diabetes oral agents or insulin and receiving care at an academic medical center. Participants completed an enrollment survey to collect demographic information. Medical records were reviewed to collect medication and diabetes-related information. Participants received instruction on accessing Diabetes MAP, used the site independently for two weeks (n=29), then provided feedback via a survey (n=29) and/or a focus group session (n=27). Survey data were analyzed descriptively. Focus group data were coded and analyzed thematically.

Participants were, on average, 51.7±11.8 years old, female (66%), non-Hispanic White (60%), privately insured (78%), educated (31% with >12 years), and half had household incomes >$50,000. Average diabetes duration was 7.8±6.4 years; average A1C was 7.4 ± 2.0; and 38% used insulin. Most survey participants (75%) agreed Diabetes MAP was easy to learn and/or (89%) its information was clear and easy to understand. However, 28% reported navigational challenges and/or (32%) difficulty recovering from errors. In focus groups, participants reported experiencing many errors, but liked the site’s design and easy access to medication information. Participants recommended improving the site’s user interface to facilitate quick, efficient completion of site-related tasks.

Usability issues, such as difficulty navigating, understanding, and completing tasks are barriers to using and benefiting from Diabetes MAP. Appropriate usability testing ensures Internet-delivered interventions work as intended to improve health behaviors and outcomes.