Evaluation of the Usability of the MEPSS Prototype Decision Support Program forAbdominal Pain with Two User Populations

摘要

A fully operational prototype of the MEPSS decision support module for diagnosingabdominal pain was usability tested with representatives from two user populations: Independent Duty Corpsmen and EMT-Paramedics. Issues with the user interface that negatively affect the accuracy of the program were identified. Design recommendations are presented. The two groups differed in their acceptance of the program. Marketing strategies to increase acceptance are suggested. The utility of usability testing methodology for identifying problems with the user interface, and for identifying differences in the needs of target user populations, was demonstrated.