Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Discrete Choice Experiments (DCEs) require qualitative research to identify attributes reflecting patient experiences, treatment characteristics, and factors influencing preferences. While interviews and focus groups remain primary methods for attribute development, netnography may provide a way of accessing patient discussions. Building on a previously developed conceptual framework, this study evaluated whether non-participatory netnography can inform DCE attribute development using discussions relating to GLP-1 receptor agonists for obesity.
METHODS: Online communities discussing GLP-1 receptor agonists for obesity were identified. A non-participatory netnographic approach was applied to a purposive sample of discussions. Data were explored inductively to identify concepts relevant to treatment preferences and to assess whether naturally occurring discussions could inform DCE attribute development. Findings were considered in relation to published guidance on DCE attribute development using the conceptual framework.
RESULTS: Application of the framework enabled systematic evaluation of the extent to which online discussions generated evidence relevant to DCE attribute development. Discussions relating to treatment administration, dosing frequency, side effects, treatment burden, treatment expectations, convenience, and speed of achieving weight-loss goals were identified as relevant to DCE attribute development, although the depth and consistency of evidence varied across domains. The framework identified domains in which netnographic data aligned well with the evidence needs of DCE attribute development, alongside domains where evidence was more limited and complementary qualitative methods may remain valuable. Application of the framework also highlighted practical considerations relating to data richness, participant characterisation, and the suitability of online discussions for informing DCE development.
CONCLUSIONS: Netnography may provide a valuable source of evidence to support DCE attribute development. It may be particularly helpful for identifying treatment characteristics, patient experiences, and preference-related concepts that can inform attribute refinement. Application of the conceptual framework supports informed decisions about where netnography can be most effectively integrated into DCE development within health economics and outcomes research.