Evaluating how medical illustrations affect understanding and emotions
Advancing Medical Illustration in Patient Education Materials: From Art to Science. Study 1: Medical Illustration Design Characteristic Evaluation
This study tests how different styles of medical illustrations can help people understand health information better and feel less anxious about it.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 8200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Northeastern University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06435806 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore how different medical illustration designs influence laypersons' understanding and emotional responses, particularly feelings of anxiety. Researchers will conduct cognitive interviews to gather insights on participants' interpretations of various illustrations and their preferences for illustration styles. By systematically varying design elements, the study seeks to identify which features enhance comprehension and reduce anxiety in viewers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals over 18 years old who are fluent in English or Spanish and can independently consent.
Not a fit: Patients who do not speak English or Spanish or have visual impairments that prevent them from reading patient education documents may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the effectiveness of medical illustrations in patient education, leading to better understanding and reduced anxiety for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on medical communication have been conducted, this specific focus on the emotional impact of illustration design is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Over 18 years old * Speaks English or Spanish fluently * Is able to independently consent * Has adequate corrected vision to read patient education documents Exclusion Criteria: \* None
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations
- Tufts Medical Center — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Northeastern University — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Timothy Bickmore, PhD — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Timothy Bickmore, PhD
- Email: t.bickmore@northeastern.edu
- Phone: 6173735477
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.