JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Virtual research has emerged as a promising and convenient approach. This study investigates the experiences and challenges faced by patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) who participated in a virtual research study.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the experiences of adults with chronic respiratory diseases participating in a virtual research study and to identify challenges they encountered to inform future virtual research design and implementation.

Methods:

Adults with physician-diagnosed asthma or COPD taking medications for their condition were recruited from the Greater Vancouver Area. 185 participants completed an asthma- or COPD-specific HL measurement tool through telephone interviews, then completed a post-interview checklist (n=36) or survey (n=149) on their experience with virtual research. To test the HL tool reproducibility, 110 participants were re-tested and completed the same checklist (n=79) or survey (n=31). Interviews were transcribed and thematic analyses were conducted on interviews, surveys, and checklists.

Results:

Six overarching themes were identified: Overall Experience with Virtual Research, Clarity of Instructions, Technology, Communication, Condition and Cognition, and Logistics. While participants generally reported a positive experience, the study identified significant challenges, including technological barriers, the need for clear and concise instructions, mental fatigue, and communication difficulties.

Conclusions:

These findings highlight the importance of providing comprehensive technical support, ensuring clear communication, and addressing ethical considerations in virtual research. This study contributes valuable insights to the growing body of literature on the viability and challenges of virtual research in healthcare.