Implementing a Digital Platform for Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

Importance: A patient-centered care model is needed for recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) management.

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop a conceptual model for a digital platform to implement evidence-based guidelines for recurrent UTI management.

Study design: This was a qualitative, 3-stage mixed methods study that included (1) developing an evidence-based prototype texting platform; (2) qualitative feedback from recurrent UTI patients using the platform; and (3) quantitative data on acceptability (proportion of patients engaging with the platform), accuracy (proportion of patient messages interpreted accurately by the platform), and usability (score 0-100).

Results: Thirty-one women with recurrent UTI (median age, 71 years; range, 60-74 years) participated in testing over 4 months. The prototype platform was modified through iterative rounds of qualitative and quantitative analysis until engagement ≥85%, accuracy ≥90%, and usability score of ≥80 were achieved in 10 patients. Qualitative feedback indicated that patients valued rapid access to treatment through fewest possible health encounters during an acute episode, evidence-based education about prevention, and ability to participate in self-management with support from health care providers. Based on this feedback, a conceptual model consisting of 3 main components was developed: (1) an algorithm to triage acute symptoms, (2) educational videos emphasizing prevention strategies, and (3) supportive messages. Patient feedback identified 4 key implementation outcomes-usability, acceptability (engagement), fidelity (accuracy), and cost-and 3 clinical outcomes-self-efficacy, health care utilization, and rate of unnecessary antibiotics for testing the model.

Conclusion: The proposed model can be used to implement and test a patient-centered evidence-based digital platform for the management of recurrent UTI.