Development of a novel web-based platform to support culturally and medically tailored comprehensive nutrition assessments: SPICE-Healthcare

Abstract

Objectives A point-of-care resource is required to support Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in providing comprehensive culturally-tailored nutrition services. This study aims to describe the iterative development and testing of a comprehensive nutrition assessment tool as part of a novel web-based platform to Support Personalized and Inclusive Cuisines in Environments for Healthcare (SPICE-Healthcare). Materials and Methods Leveraging co-design approaches, we iteratively developed and tested a nutrition assessment tool with RDNs across the U.S. We conducted qualitative interviews, a usability testing session, and follow-up survey and interviews to evaluate the usability, acceptability, ease of use, and likelihood of using the tool among practicing RDNs. Results Our development of the assessment tool involved four phases (n=40 total): (1) conceptualizing its structure and vision, (2) testing a low-fidelity prototype and designing optimized features (n=10); (3) testing a high-fidelity prototype with optimized (culturally personalized) features (n=10); and (4) testing a fully functioning, programmed tool (n=20). Findings suggest above average usability of the tool (Phase 4 average System Usability Scale score=80 out of 100) and acceptability (Phase 4 average Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 score=26.5 out of 32). Discussion Our study suggests potential for future implementation testing of the nutrition assessment tool within SPICE-Healthcare. The use of co-design approaches enabled the collaborative generation and evaluation of the assessment tool with expert RDN end-users. Conclusion The comprehensive nutrition assessment tool within SPICE-Healthcare shows potential for facilitating culturally and medically tailored nutrition assessments at the point-of-care to support adults with diet-related health conditions.