Using Asynchronous Online Focus Groups to Capture Healthcare Professional Opinions

Abstract

Introduction Online data collection methods can increase study accessibility and ease the burden of data collection for participants. Asynchronous Online Focus Groups are a promising method for data collection among healthcare professionals. Methods In this article, we describe the use of, and lessons learned from conducting 19 Asynchronous Online Focus Groups across four research studies. Results We describe our experiences preparing for, recruiting for, and conducting Asynchronous Online Focus Groups. We highlight decision points around timeframe, eligibility, recruitment, participation, focus group assignment, moderation, and participant engagement. We found that removing geographic barriers was advantageous for collecting data, focus group attrition is a concern for asynchronous formats, and group assignment may affect data. Conclusions Asynchronous Online Focus Groups are a promising method for data collection among healthcare professionals. When conducting Asynchronous Online Focus Groups researchers should consider the suitability and the unique implications of this data collection method for data quality.