Benda, Natalie C., Masterson Creber, Ruth M., Scheinmann, Roberta, Nino de Rivera, Stephanie, Pimentel, Eric Costa, Kalish, Robin B., Riley, Laura E., Hermann, Alison, & Ancker, Jessica S. (2024). Sociodemographic differences in perspectives on postpartum symptom reporting. Applied Clinical Informatics, 15(4), 692-699. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0044-1788328
This study focuses on designing a patient-reported outcome (PRO) and decision support system to help postpartum patients decide when to seek medical care for concerning symptoms. The researchers investigated how race, ethnicity, and preferred language influence preferences for using such an app. The study surveyed 446 participants who had given birth within the past year, divided into four demographic groups based on language, race, and ethnicity.
Key findings revealed that Black participants were less likely to have previously used symptom-reporting apps and expressed less interest in downloading the described app compared to other groups. They also placed less importance on sharing warning signs with friends and family. Black participants, along with non-Hispanic Black participants, preferred reporting symptoms less frequently than Hispanic participants. Additionally, Spanish-speaking Hispanic participants favored calling a healthcare professional for urgent issues, while Black and English-speaking Hispanic participants were more interested in using online chat or patient portals.
These results highlight the importance of tailoring health apps to the preferences of different demographic groups. Designing flexible tools that accommodate varying preferences based on race, ethnicity, and language can improve patient engagement and the effectiveness of postpartum care systems.