Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Formative Research
Date Submitted: Sep 25, 2023
Date Accepted: Dec 24, 2024
E-nergEYEze, a vision-specific E-health intervention to reduce fatigue in adults with visual impairment: user-experiences from patient s’ and healthcare professional s’ perspectives in a randomized controlled trial.
ABSTRACT
Background:
E-nergEYEze, a blended vision-specific E-health intervention to reduce fatigue severity in adults with visual impairment, has been developed, pilot tested and studied in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
Objective:
This study aimed to identify factors that drive participant behavior or affect outcomes. A process evaluation from the perspective of patients and professionals was considered relevant to complement (cost)-effectiveness outcomes.
Methods:
User-experiences of participants with visual impairment and severe fatigue (n=51), who were randomized to the intervention group of this RCT, and professionals (n=11) who provided blended support were evaluated. The Dutch Mental Health questionnaire and a therapist evaluation were used and analyzed using mixed methods. A focus group meeting was held for more in-depth information with involved social workers (n=4), computer trainer (n=1) and psychologists (n=2). The e-platform provided data on user-engagement.
Results:
The majority of patients were engaged, internalized personally relevant topics and made use of the benefits of E-health. Digital proficiency and having appropriate expectations were the most important factors for continuing the intervention. The effort made to reduce fatigue was perceived satisfying, however, some patients experienced the content as intense and challenging. Patients considered the frequency and quality of guidance highly relevant. In total, 87% of the patients would recommend others to engage in E-nergEYEze. Professionals reported that E-nergEYEze required patients’ self-efficacy, motivation and digital skills, therefore, pre-selection was essential. Professional affinity with E-health was considered essential to provide appropriate remote support.
Conclusions:
User-experiences underlined the potential of E-nergEYEze to reduce fatigue severity in adults with VI. E-health provides a treatment opportunity for target group in which guidance was considered as a highly relevant aspect. Attention to the training of professionals on providing remote support is essential. This process evaluation provided valuable insights to learn from and optimize E-nergEYEze to reduce fatigue in adults with VI. Clinical Trial: International Clinical Trial Registry Platform: NL77643. Date registered: 28-05-2019
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