Ms Josielli Comachio1, Dr Mark Halliday2, Prof Paulo Ferreira1, Dr Jillian Eyles3, Ms David Roberts2, Dr Thomas Patterson1, Dr Paula Beckenkamp1
1Sydney Musculoskeletal Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia., Sydney, Australia, 2Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia, 3Sydney Musculoskeletal Health, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
Biography:
Josielli Comachio is a researcher with a background in physiotherapy and a strong passion for translating research into real-world impact. She holds a master’s degree and is currently completing her PhD at the University of Sydney. Her key areas of interest include: Implementation Science, Health Economics and Digital Health & Innovation.
Abstract:
Objective:
To assess the feasibility of implementing a multimedia intervention in clinic waiting area to inform a larger trial on its impact in promoting physical activity and reducing paracetamol use for low back pain (LBP).
Methods:
A hybrid type III feasibility study was conducted over six months in the outpatient physiotherapy department of a public hospital in Sydney, Australia. Interventions included a video and booklet to engage patients in promoting physical activity and reducing paracetamol use, which reflects current evidence-based LBP management. We used the RE-AIM framework to guide the evaluation. People with and without LBP were invited to participate.
Results:
Reach: Engagement with the intervention was low, only 66 (20%) of the potential 325 participants accessed the intervention and completed surveys. Only six participants with LBP agreed to complete a one-month follow-up survey. Effectiveness: 92% of participants said they would exercise more after the intervention. Adoption: Both the video and booklet received high ratings for satisfaction and usefulness (7.7–7.9/10), and helpfulness (8.6/10). Staff reported a mean satisfaction of 8.8/10, however, participants watched an average of 1:27 min of the 2:15 min video. Implementation: Barriers to engagement included unfamiliarity with digital formats used to access the video and surveys (iPads and/or QR codes), video length, and staff assistance/prompting required to complete study procedures. Maintenance: Staff suggested enhancements for the educational materials, wider hospital promotion and regular content updates.
Conclusion:
Real-world digital health interventions for education present challenges, particularly regarding user engagement, digital literacy, and integration into healthcare systems.