Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT1625

Background: Integration of digital health technologies with growth hormone therapy (GHT) has transformed the care and management of paediatric patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Digitalisation of healthcare systems has improved patient adherence and facilitated more effective therapeutic monitoring and support from healthcare professionals (HCPs), which are vital to patient care.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the perceived quality of digital health devices used to support paediatric GHT and evaluate the perceptions of HCPs regarding the evolution of health device technologies.

Method: A participatory workshop was conducted on 10 November 2023 in Seoul, Republic of Korea, to explore the perceptions of HCPs regarding digital health devices for paediatric GHT. Two case studies were conducted using two sample devices: Easypod® autoinjector and Easypod® connect transmitter (EP2) and its successor—Easypod® next generation (EP3). The HCPs were allowed to interact with both devices. The workshop comprised of five phases that addressed device ergonomics, configuration tasks and facilitated discussions on dimensions of the quality of an mHealth solution such as usability, safety, and perceived usefulness. Participants identified the strengths and weaknesses of the devices, providing valuable insights into the evolution of health device technology and its impact on paediatric care.

Results: The HCPs believed that the evolution of mHealth technology has positively impacted the perceived quality of digital health. Ergonomics was indicated as a crucial factor in device quality and acceptance. The HCPs favoured EP3 over EP2 because of its improved dimensions, larger screen, and better button design. EP3 was considered more suitable for paediatric patients due to its automatic data transmission features, which allows personalised treatment and improves patient adherence. Although both EP2 and EP3 were considered easy to use, EP3 was preferred because of its superior user interface, skin sensor, and monitored dosing, which tracks the injections performed and the set dose, thereby preventing drug wastage. Additionally, EP3 received positive feedback for its safety and security features and was considered like current smartphones in terms of usability. Discussions also covered the content, engagement, support, and technological evolution of devices used in paediatric GHD management.

Conclusion: The outcomes of this workshop highlight the significance of technological advancements in the management of paediatric GHD. The HCPs acknowledged that the digitalisation of GHT would benefit their clinical practices, optimise resources, and personalise care for paediatric GHD including patient preferences and self-management. This will also enhance HCP-patient communication, thereby improving adherence and patient-caregiver satisfaction.