Abstract P4-13-02: Comparing data quality of client intake forms by interview mode: results of a pilot study on the use of audio computer-assisted self-interview (ACASI) in the Avon Breast Health Outreach Program
Authors: R Hallum-Montes, L Senter, R D'Souza, M Hurlbert, K Gates-Ferris, M Anastario
Journal: Cancer Research (2012)

Abstract Background: Numerous studies have documented the relative advantages that computer assisted self-interview (CASI) technology holds over traditional interviewing methods in collecting research data on stigmatized and/or risky health behaviors. However, few studies have explored the broader implications of using CASI to collect basic client-level data during routine health promotion and disease prevention screenings. Aims: The present study aims to address this gap in research by comparing the quality of client-level data collected via audio-computer assisted self-interview (ACASI) with data collected via face-to-face and self-administered paper-based interviews among a sample of clients served through the Avon Breast Health Outreach Program (Avon BHOP). Methods: A total of 303 clients served through the Avon BHOP were sampled from three U.S. sites between November 2011 and March 2012. Clients were randomly assigned to complete the Avon BHOP client intake form (CIF) via one of three interview modes: face-to-face interview (FFI), self-administered paper-based interview (SAPI), or ACASI. We conducted logistic regression and determined odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals to test our hypothesis that use of ACASI would result in significantly higher rates of CIF completion than either FFI or SAPI. We compared rates of completion of the entire CIF, as well as completion of each of the three CIF sections: Demographics, Breast Health Information, and Correlates of Breast Health. Results: Clients were significantly more likely to complete the entire CIF via ACASI than either FFI or SAPI interview modes. The greatest differences were observed when comparing rates of completion between ACASI and SAPI, as clients were almost five times more likely to complete the CIF via ACASI as opposed to SAPI (OR = 4.7, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Additionally, when comparing rates of completion of the three CIF sections on Demographics, Breast Health Information (e.g. mammogram history), and Correlates of Breast Health (e.g., smoking behavior, alcohol consumption), we found that clients were between 3.2 and 7.2 times more likely to complete the sections via ACASI as opposed to SAPI. Discussion: Overall, we found that use of ACASI resulted in significantly higher rates of overall form completion and lower rates of missing data than use of SAPI or FFI, with the greatest identified disparity in form completion between ACASI and SAPI. This study has important implications for breast health specialists or any health practitioners who regularly rely on self-administered questionnaires and/or face-to-face interviews to collect important health information. We recommend that where feasible, ACASI be utilized as an effective means of collecting high quality client-level data. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2012;72(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-13-02.