(Poster 16) Patient-Reported Experience Measure Engagement in Chinese American Women w/ OAB

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the perspectives of Chinese American women regarding factors that influence their participation in Patient-Reported Experience Measures (PREMs) regarding care for overactive bladder (OAB). Our goal was to gather insights that will improve the engagement of Chinese American women in patient-centered research to enhance racial representation in OAB studies.

Methods: This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews that took place from June 2024 to October 2024. The study’s inclusion criteria were: (1) English, Mandarin, or Cantonese speakers, (2) ethnically Chinese women, (3) aged 18 years or older, and (4) with OAB symptoms lasting at least 3 months, and (5) had previously sought care for OAB. Recruitment ceased when thematic saturation was reached. We also collected each participant’s demographics and Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI-6). To inform our research questions, we formed an OAB stakeholder group consisting of clinicians, community organizations leaders, and Chinese American women with OAB. MAXQDA software was used to facilitate data analysis. Inductive thematic analysis identified emerging themes. Each transcript was independently coded, and differences were resolved by consensus.

Results: Twenty-five Chinese American women participated in the study, with an average age of 59 years and a mean UDI-6 score of 50.5 (SD 15.4) (see Table 1). We identified three key factors that affect their ability and willingness to participate in PREM concerning OAB care: (1) characteristics of PREM, (2) the role of clinicians, and (3) motivations and uncertainties about PREM participation (Table 2).

Regarding the characteristics of PREM, participants identified several factors that could affect their willingness to engage: (i) the belief that lengthy PREMs are time-consuming and contain irrelevant questions, (ii) the importance of administering PREMs promptly following an OAB encounter, and (iii) the availability of Chinese language PREMs proved crucial for these participants. Additionally, participants noted the influence of clinicians on their willingness to participate in PREMs, specifically highlighting that (i) there is increased likelihood to participate in PREM when invited by clinicians, and (ii) confidentiality of their PREM responses is a prerequisite for participation. Lastly, participants expressed their motivations and concerns about participating in PREM. Their motivations included (i) a desire to contribute to meaningful changes that could benefit other patients, and (ii) the belief that PREM provides a way to voice their opinions without directly confronting the healthcare team. Conversely, their uncertainties included (i) fear of being lured to fraudulent surveys, and (ii) skeptical about the potential impact of their participation.

Conclusions: We identified several broadly applicable factors that influence Chinese American women’s PREM engagement as related to OAB care. As the importance of involving racial and ethnic minority groups in research is well recognized, it is essential to center on patients’ perspectives and develop strategies aimed at enhancing racial representation in patient-centered OAB research.