Adolescent Satisfaction with Computer-Assisted Behavioural Risk Screening in Primary Care.

BACKGROUND: This study measures patient satisfaction with a computerised mental health and risk-behaviour screening tool and predictors of satisfaction. METHOD: Youth, aged 11-20, were recruited to use a laptop-based screening system in nine primary care clinics. The study assessed correlations between satisfaction with the system and selected predictors. RESULTS: Most users were satisfied with their experience. Multivariate logistic regression found perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and trust to be significantly associated with high satisfaction. Satisfaction was not related to computer experience or risk behaviour status. CONCLUSIONS: Adolescent patients, even those at risk, accept computer-assisted screening in primary care. KEY PRACTITIONER MESSAGE: Screening adolescents for behavioural and mental health issues in the primary care setting is time consuming. Computer assisted screening has the potential to improve screening. This study finds that youth will accept computerised screening if the system is perceived to be useful and easy to use.