Atopic eczema management via a digital pathway. Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The uptake, engagement and feasibility of a digital pathway for the management of adults and adolescents with atopic eczema
IRAS ID
327824
Contact name
Zeeshaan-Ul Hasan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Barts Health NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 0 days
Research summary
Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that causes flaky skin lesions and itching, and can significantly impact quality of life. People with eczema often experience unpredictable exacerbations of their symptomatology. The current model of fixed, scheduled follow-up appointments lacks the flexibility required to support patients during these flares. Digital follow-up pathways provide an opportunity to offer a flexible model of support, where patients can seek help when it is needed.
People with eczema being treated in two London hospitals are being invited to use a digital follow up pathway, though a dermatology mobile phone app, as part of their routine care. This app supports them to monitor their eczema, allows them to contact their dermatology team, and provides access to self-support modules. This app will be used as an alternative to their normal routine care although they will still be able to access to their dermatology team through telephone, e-mail and scheduled appointments if needed.
Patients, aged 13 and older, who are invited to use the app as part of their routine care will also be invited to take part in this study. The main aim of this study is to evaluate patient engagement with the digital health pathway. The study involves the use of surveys to collect additional information about participants at their sign-up visit, and then follow up of their use of the app, and routine care resources, for a year. The study also aims to identify patient factors that predict engagement and to assess whether the addition of the pathway reduced the use of routine appointments. The data collected in this study will help to improve the use of digital pathways for managing patients in the NHS.
REC name
London - Harrow Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/PR/1390
Date of REC Opinion
8 Jan 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion