Estimating preferences for a dermatology consultation using Best-Worst Scaling: Comparison of various methods of analysis
2008

Estimating Preferences for Dermatology Consultations

Sample size: 55 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Terry N. Flynn, Jordan J. Louviere, Tim J. Peters, Joanna Coast

Primary Institution: University of Bristol

Hypothesis

Can best-worst scaling provide better insights into patient preferences for dermatology consultations compared to traditional methods?

Conclusion

Discrete choice experiments incorporating best-worst questions can yield robust insights into patient preferences even with small sample sizes.

Supporting Evidence

  • Patients with severe skin conditions preferred shorter waiting times significantly.
  • Higher educational attainment was linked to larger differences in utility between appointment attributes.
  • The study found high agreement between results from different analytical models.

Takeaway

This study helps us understand what patients want when they see a skin doctor by asking them to pick their favorite and least favorite things about their appointments.

Methodology

The study used multinomial and weighted least squares regression models to analyze data from a discrete choice experiment in a UK NHS dermatology context.

Potential Biases

The study may have induced clustering in the data by obtaining multiple responses from individuals.

Limitations

The sample size was relatively small, and the study may not account for all sources of variability in patient preferences.

Participant Demographics

Participants included individuals with varying degrees of skin conditions and educational backgrounds.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Confidence Interval

[0.1048, 1.7628]

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2288-8-76

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