I am developing a research proposal to explore the potential impact of chatbots for health on patients, healthcare professionals and health services.
Chatbots are computer systems that can participate in a conversation with a user by means of text or spoken language. Examples include Amazon’s Alexa and Apple’s Siri. Chatbots are beginning to be used in healthcare. One example of a health chatbot is Babylon Health; which asks users about their symptoms, suggests possible causes and recommends an appropriate course of action such as visiting a GP, pharmacist, or self-care. Chatbots can support patients and the public by providing easy access to health information that is accurate and specific to the individual person. However, the introduction of chatbots for health is controversial and there are concerns about the accuracy of the information they provide, confidentially and the impact on the doctor-patient relationship.
I am looking for two to three patients or public advisors to talk through my research plan to get their feedback on research questions and methods. I would also like to hear their views on the use of chatbots for health to identify priorities for this research project.
I am looking for people who are:
– Aged 18 years and over
– Available to participate in an online group discussion
– Willing to discuss their views on chatbots for health
No experience of using a chatbot is required to participate.
The discussion will be hosted online in early December and last up to one hour. If you decide to take part you will be given a brief overview of the research proposal and asked to think about the following questions:
– Are the proposed research questions appropriate?
– Are there other important questions this research should answer?
– Are the proposed methods appropriate?
– What would help recruit participants to this project?
– What are your views on chatbots for health?
There may be opportunities for paid involvement in the future if this research is funded.
Date required
January 2021
Organisation
University of Oxford
Contact
If you are interested in taking part please contact Emma Phelps: emma.phelps@ndorms.ox.ac.uk