Using Data to Approach the Unknown

Medical practices have always been data oriented: healthcare providers decisions are based on data, both clinically generated and patient reported. With the increased use of patient-generated health (PGHD), other types entering providers? influencing patient-provider collaboration. We studied PGHD its related in context fertility, a concern that is uncertain, complex, intensive. interviewed 14 patients who facing or faced challenges to conceive 5 specialized infertility. Our findings show different ways but with common goal exploring 'the unknown' by uncertainties fertility. Providers patients? rational protocol, aiming identify possible causes infertility define treatment course. Patients much more emotional way, learning about their bodies while struggling interpretation challenges. By analyzing these practices, we discuss principles behind differences describe how they individual benefits for each specific group. then suggest fertility technologies need consider such principles, highlight existing boundary between patients' providers' focus bridging instead merging them order facilitate collaboration maintain independent benefits.