Online Symptom Checkers: Exploring the need for a standardised clinical validation process (Preprint)

Abstract

<sec> <title>UNSTRUCTURED</title> The use of online symptom checkers (OSCs) is increasing but their safety, efficacy and impact on healthcare systems remain unclear. The lack of a standardised validation process and the absence of third-party testing requirements have resulted in significant variation in OSC clinical performance. Discrepancy in the findings of comparative studies to date suggests that several steps in OSC evaluation methodology can significantly influence outcomes. A uniform validation process with a clear specification is urgently required to objectively assess the performance of OSCs and help improve patient safety. Careful consideration and clear guidance for each of these steps will be required to create an objective validation standard that is robust and fair. An objective validation process could support the widescale adoption of OSC in the community setting with the potential to reduce pressure on scarce NHS resources, especially for self-limiting conditions. </sec>

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