A Telemedicine Platform for Aphasia: Protocol for a Development and Usability Study

Abstract

Background: Aphasia is a central disorder of comprehension and expression of language that cannot be attributed to a peripheral sensory deficit or a peripheral motor disorder. The diagnosis and treatment of aphasia are complex. Interventions that facilitate this process can lead to an increase in the number of assisted patients and greater precision in the therapeutic choice by the health professional. Objective: This paper describes a protocol for a study that aims to implement a computer-based solution (ie, a telemedicine platform) that uses deep learning to classify vocal data from participants with aphasia and to develop serious games to treat aphasia. Additionally, this study aims to evaluate the usability and user experience of the proposed solution. Methods: Our interactive and smart platform will be developed to provide an alternative option for professionals and their patients with aphasia. We will design 2 serious games for aphasia rehabilitation and a deep learning–driven computational solution to aid diagnosis. A pilot evaluation of usability and user experience will reveal user satisfaction with platform features. Results: Data collection began in June 2022 and is currently ongoing. Results of system development as well as usability should be published by mid-2023. Conclusions: This research will contribute to the treatment and diagnosis of aphasia by developing a telemedicine platform based on a co-design process. Therefore, this research will provide an alternative method for health care to patients with aphasia. Additionally, it will guide further studies with the same purpose. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/40603