PEC Innovation (Dec 2023)

Facilitating family communication of familial hypercholesterolemia genetic risk: Assessing engagement with innovative chatbot technology from the IMPACT-FH study

  • Nicole L. Walters,
  • Zoe T. Lindsey-Mills,
  • Andrew Brangan,
  • Sarah K. Savage,
  • Tara J. Schmidlen,
  • Kelly M. Morgan,
  • Eric P. Tricou,
  • Megan M. Betts,
  • Laney K. Jones,
  • Amy C. Sturm,
  • Gemme Campbell-Salome

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2
p. 100134

Abstract

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Objective: To assess use of two web-based conversational agents, the Family Sharing Chatbot (FSC) and One Month Chatbot (OMC), by individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). Methods: FSC and OMC were sent using an opt-out methodology to a cohort of individuals receiving a FH genetic result. Data from 7/1/2021 through 5/12/2022 was obtained from the electronic health record and the chatbots’ HIPAA-secure web portal. Results: Of 175 subjects, 21 (12%) opted out of the chatbots. Older individuals were more likely to opt out. Most (91/154, 59%) preferred receiving chatbots via the patient EHR portal. Seventy-five individuals (49%) clicked the FSC link, 62 (40%) interacted, and 36 (23%) shared a chatbot about their FH result with at least one relative. Ninety-two of the subjects received OMC, 22 (23%) clicked the link and 20 (21%) interacted. Individuals who shared were majority female and younger on average than the overall cohort. Reminders tended to increase engagement. Conclusion: Results demonstrate characteristics relevant to chatbot engagement. Individuals may be more inclined to receive chatbots if integrated within the patient EHR portal. Frequent reminders can potentially improve chatbot utilization. Innovation: FSC and OMC employ innovative digital health technology that can facilitate family communication about hereditary conditions.

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