Patient-reported usability challenges when implementing integrated EHR medication reminders for kidney transplant patients in a home setting: A pilot study

Background: With an aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment for end-stage renal disease due to its superior clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness compared to dialysis. Although EHR-integrated medication reminders have the potential to enhance adherence in transplant patients, their feasibility require further investigation. Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of an integrated medication reminder tool for kidney transplant patients in terms of experienced usability and satisfaction. Methods: A single-arm survey design was used to assess the usability and satisfaction in kidney transplant recipients using an EHR-integrated medication reminder tool through the patient portal at a large academic hospital in the Netherlands. Usability and satisfaction were evaluated using the validated Experienced Usability and Satisfaction with self-monitoring in the home Setting (GEMS) questionnaire comprising four subconstructs: Convenience of use, Perceived value, Efficiency of use, and Satisfaction. Quantitative data were analysed and assessed through descriptive statistics. Furthermore, six additional questions assessed logging into the system, ease of follow-up on reminder, satisfaction with reminder timing, perceived support for adherence, occurrence of incorrect reminders, and willingness to continue using the tool, using Likert scales and open-ended responses. Results: In total, forty-three patients participated in this study. The results showed mixed experienced usability and satisfaction, with a GEMS score of 65.0%. The Efficiency of use subconstruct revealed issues such as difficulties in checking off medication and accessing the patient portal. The Satisfaction subconstruct revealed limitations of the tool, as reminders cannot be customized, creating inconvenience for patients who had developed their own medication routines after transplantation. One third (35.7%) of the patients reported willingness to continue using the tool after the pilot program. Conclusion: The experienced usability and satisfaction of an integrated EHR medication reminder tool were adequate for half of the patients. To facilitate large-scale implementation, improvements of the tool are needed to maximize its effectiveness for kidney transplant patients, particularly by enhancing customization of the notification system to better meet user needs and support medication adherence.