Comprehensive Informatics Framework for Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER) Dissemination

In this project the investigators seek to utilize our experience for developing a comprehensive informatics framework for rapid adaptation and dissemination of Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER) products tailored to different categories of health consumers including difficult-to-reach patients. Based on our previous successful experience in computer-assisted education, the investigators will refine the current CO-ED platform to implement and test a novel system for individualized continuous patient education (iCOPE). The iCOPE platform will be specifically designed to support rapid adaptation, customization, and dissemination of the CER products to the difficult-to-reach populations. The iCOPE platform will implement universal means for customized delivery of CER information in the format of interactive self-paced educational modules, quick "question \& answer" guides, and interactive decision aids. In addition, the iCOPE platform will support the innovative concept of continuous patient health education by providing patients with easy access to the interactive CER updates via web, MP3 players and phone-based interactive voice response (IVR) technology. Though iCOPE will be designed to support the whole spectrum of CER products, in this project the investigators will focus on the Comparative Effectiveness Research Summary Guide (CERSG) entitled "Pills for Type 2 Diabetes."

The following primary hypothesis will be tested in the RCT: Use of the iCOPE platform will be associated with improvement in CERSG knowledge in elderly at 6 months after the intervention.

The investigators will also examine the impact of iCOPE on medication adherence self-efficacy, diabetes medication satisfaction, HbA1c, and CERSG acceptance.

Interactive, computer-based education has the potential to greatly increase interest, because the learner actively participates in the learning process (Fox, 2009). In addition, the involvement of auditory, visual, and interactive learning strategies can increase recall of information. Computer-assisted educational programs may incorporate features that promote ease of use, be written in multiple languages, be scripted at a level that addresses the needs of low literacy learners, and be viewed as often as needed by a patient (Fox, 2009).

Several studies reported results of using computer technology in educating elderly patients about health conditions. Stromberg et al (2006) used a single-session, interactive computer-based educational program about chronic heart failure in elderly patients. They demonstrated that interactive computer-mediated education may be effectively used to increase patients' knowledge, about heart failure. Another study, conducted by Lin et al (2009), evaluated the usability of a touch-screen-enabled personal education program (PEP). The results showed that the system was evaluated as usable and useful, and older adults were satisfied with their experience. Similar findings were reported by Neafsey et al (2008) who also evaluated a patient-centered computer-mediated program using touch screen computers. Authors reported high satisfaction of the older adult users, increased knowledge and self-efficacy for avoiding adverse self-medication behaviors.

Elderly patients are less likely than younger patients to seek incidental information on their condition via internet. (Tian \& Robinson, 2008) Elderly patients therefore are less likely to navigate internet looking for information about evidence or treatment guidelines for their conditions. More targeted efforts may be needed to reach such populations. Disseminating information via combination of high technology media along with traditional media that are easily usable is helpful (Longo, 2005). A recent review of barriers and drivers of health IT use by elderly, very ill, and underserved, revealed that such technology can play a role in offering effective interventions. The consumer perceptions on benefits from use of system, convenience of use, and familiar technology were all important factors for intervention success (Jimison et al., 2008).

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* have clinical diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes;
* take oral diabetes medications;
* be 65 years of age or older at the time of randomization;
* plan to remain in the Maryland/DC area until the completion of the study follow-up;
* understand English at the 5th grade level.

Exclusion Criteria:

* plan to leave Maryland/DC area before the completion of the study follow- up;
* presence of significant cognitive impairment based on a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≤23
* do not speak English.