ChiroSCOPE (Chiropractic Systematic Clinical Observation of Practice Evidence): preliminary evaluation of a web application for data collection within a clinical research network: a mixed methods pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) face challenges including time constraints, workflow disruption, and lack of standardized data collection protocols. We evaluated the usability of "Patient Progress," a web application designed to support PBRN data collection among Canadian chiropractors and their patients.

METHODS

An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used. Ten chiropractors piloted the application over six months, collecting patient-reported outcome measures and clinical data from 60 patients. Patient usability was assessed via the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ); chiropractor perspectives were explored through semi-structured interviews analyzed thematically.

RESULTS

Patients rated overall usability highly (mean 6.63/7). Chiropractor interviews identified key implementation barriers: lack of integration with existing practice management software, bilingual interface issues, questionnaire length, and recruitment challenges.

CONCLUSION

"Patient Progress" shows promise for PBRN data collection in chiropractic practice. Wider implementation requires seamless integration with existing software systems, interface improvements, and value-added clinical features to incentivize practitioner participation.