Treatment Decision Tool
Your Path to Informed Choices
My Role:
Lead UX Designer
Team:
UX Designer, UI Designer & UX Researchers
Duration:
Feb - April 2023
Overview
Indiana University (IU) Simon Cancer Center is a premier research facility where a lot of research and development is being done on improving cancer treatments for patients using cutting edge technology.
One such initiative at this cancer center was aiming to bridge the gap between doctors and patients by simplifying complex medical information during consultations. They reached out to us to help them research and design a new version of their treatment decision tool.
I led a team of 3 designers and researchers with the aim to identify the gaps in their application and designing a clearer and more user-friendly tool. We designed a new version of the application that focuses on building trust and supporting informed decision-making for cancer patients.
Research
Heuristic Evaluations: I conducted a thorough usability review to identify interface issues and potential improvements.
Desk Research: I looked at existing articles and online materials to learn about what patients need, how medical decisions are made, and common issues in communication.
Interviews: I talked to patients, nurses, and oncologists to understand their experiences, challenges, and what they hope for in consultations.
Problem Statement
How can we help patients understand complex medical information and make the right decisions about their treatment, while also allowing oncologists to communicate effectively within time constraints, reducing communication gaps and building trust?
The Solution - Treatment Decision Tool
The CLL Treatment Decision Tool breaks down complex treatment information into manageable steps, presenting each piece in an easy-to-understand format.
This method helps patients follow their doctor's advice better, saves time during appointments, and helps them remember important information.
This ultimately supports them in making better choices about their health care.
Ranking Benefits
The consultation starts with patients and physicians discussing and ranking the Benefits they want to focus on.
Ranking Side-Effects
Next, they discuss and rank the side-effects they want to avoid and are okay with.
Ranking Benefits
The consultation starts with patients and physicians discussing and ranking the Benefits they want to focus on.
The Design Strategy
Simplicity: Easy-to-understand visuals, avoiding complex elements
Staged approach: Step-by-step focus on benefits, harms, and treatment options
Test Results
9 out of 10 oncologists and nurses preferred the new tool
40% increase in patient understanding
30% time savings for healthcare providers, allowing quicker treatment initiation and more patient care
Next Steps
Create a patient-centric version that patients can access after consultations.
Leverage AI for Pre-Consultation research and preparation for patients.
Expand to other Cancer Care Facilities across the United States.
Learnings
Working on this project showed me how important it is to balance what a business wants with what users really need. Keeping this balance makes sure that every solution is focused on the user, can be put into action, and matches the overall goals of the business.