Improving Completion Rates for Client Intake Forms through Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview (ACASI): Results from a Pilot Study with the Avon Breast Health Outreach Program

Abstract

This study compares rates of completion of client intake forms (CIFs) collected via three interview modes: audio computer-assisted self-interview (ACASI), face-to-face interview (FFI), and self-administered paper-based interview (SAPI). A total of 303 clients served through the Avon Breast Health Outreach Program (BHOP) were sampled from three U.S. sites. Clients were randomly assigned to complete a standard CIF via one of the three interview modes. Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that clients were significantly more likely to complete the entire CIF via ACASI than either FFI or SAPI. The greatest observed differences were between ACASI and SAPI; clients were almost six times more likely to complete the CIF via ACASI as opposed to SAPI (AOR = 5.8, p < .001). We recommend that where feasible, ACASI be utilized as an effective means of collecting client-level data in healthcare settings. Adoption of ACASI in health centers may translate into higher completion rates of intake forms by clients, as well as reduced burden on clinic staff to enter data and review intake forms for completion.

Mental health assessments in refugees and asylum seekers: evaluation of a tablet-assisted screening software

“…Whereas qualified interpreters are indispensable to the therapeutic process, computer-based tools can be effectively implemented in screening and diagnostic procedures in terms of standardized psychological assessments. In comparison to face-to-face interviews or self-administered paper-pencil questionnaires, Computer-Assisted Self-Interviews (CASI) have been demonstrated to increase the probability of clients reporting sensitive data, e.g., sexual risk behavior [ 16 , 17 ], or injecting drug use [ 18 ], and to improve completion of client intake forms resulting in significantly lower rates of missing data [ 19 ]. Benefits of CASI as perceived by patients include ensuring confidentiality and providing privacy, minimizing socially desirable responses, and helping to avoid perceived negative judgment [ 20 ].…”