Integrating Information Technology in Primary Care Weight Management: A Socio-Technical Evaluation for Enhanced Implementation

Presentation Time: 08:30 AM - 08:45 AM

Abstract Keywords: User-centered Design Methods, Behavioral Change, Chronic Care Management, Informatics Implementation
Primary Track: Applications
Programmatic Theme: Clinical Informatics

We report on a mixed methods formative evaluation conducted to aid the design and implementation of information technology (IT) tools supporting a primary care weight management intervention delivered via the patient portal, with primary care staff serving as coaches. Qualitative needs assessments informed IT tool design and adaptation. Actionable implementation metrics were developed and monitored using real-world electronic health record (EHR) data. The study highlights the importance of IT in facilitating weight management interventions in primary care, including for patient identification, enabling coaching through portal messages, and enabling tracking weight and calories by patients in the EHR. The findings underscore the necessity of comprehensive IT solutions and multi-level implementation strategies to ensure successful primary care-based weight management interventions. The study contributes to bridging the gap between informatics and implementation science, employing socio-technical formative evaluation methods to support IT tool implementation.

Speaker(s):
Polina Kukhareva, PhD, MPH, FAMIA
University of Utah