Project Summary
Objective: It is estimated that 80% of the population regularly search the internet for health information, and are concerned about its quality. I wanted to see how different types of interactive e-health websites affected usability.
Methods: Participants put symptoms into a Symptom Checker and searched for information. This study compared the differences between WebMD.com and HealthCentral.com on satisfaction, perceived difficulty, preference, and personal diagnostic use.
Outcomes: Overall, participants were more satisfied and preferred WebMD than with HealthCentral.com. This was primarily due to its efficiency and consistency in page design, life like interface of the symptom checker, and navigation.
Work performed: Study development, Moderate participants, Scenarios, Usability testing, Data collection/analysis, Presentation.