Work

Designing Deterministic Content for an AI Chatbot to Support Patients in Cardiovascular Self-Management: Insights from Qualitative Interviews

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Text message-based chatbots powered by artificial intelligence (AI) show promise for supporting self-management, a critical component of chronic cardiovascular disease care. However, limited research has examined how these chatbots should be designed to resonate with patients from different backgrounds. This study explored how text-based, AI-driven chatbot systems can be optimized to encourage self-management behaviors among Spanish and English-speaking patients. Methods: Participants were recruited from two clinical sites including an integrated safety-net health system and a Federally Qualified Health Center: Denver Health and Salud Family Health Centers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and qualitative coding continued until thematic saturation was reached. Interview topics included awareness and perceptions of chatbots, reactions to a demonstrated prototype, usability, trust and credibility, privacy concerns, preferences for personalization and messaging logistics, goal setting, and anticipated engagement with the program. Results: We interviewed 10 patients of whom 5 were Spanish-speaking and 5 were English-speaking. Three major themes emerged: (1) individualized and personable support, (2) a motivating and simple self-management tool, and (3) an integrated informational gateway. Participants emphasized the importance of tailoring messages to personal circumstances such as age, income, retirement status, and preferred language. A conversational, human-like tone without medical jargon was viewed favorably. Participants valued goal setting with consistent follow-up and preferred a user-friendly, engaging design. Integration with existing healthcare systems and providers was identified as essential for fostering trust and credibility. Conclusion: Tailoring chatbot design to users' preferences and life contexts, combined with ease of use, may enhance engagement and support behavior change. Integrating chatbots within established healthcare systems may further build trust and credibility, representing an important and underexplored design consideration.

Source: Patient Preference and Adherence

DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s628813