App-based Versus Slide-based Inter-grader Agreement (IGA) Test for Trachoma Graders

Overview

Trachomatous inflammation-follicular (TF) is diagnosed by looking for clinical signs of infection of everted eyelids (conjunctivae) of children. The overall objective of this project is to investigate the effectiveness, acceptability and feasibility of an app-based versus slide-based IGA for trachoma graders. Fieldwork will take place during routine Tropical Data trainings. A non-inferiority randomised controlled trial design will be employed, with grader trainees randomised to app- or slide-based training, and then to app- or slide-based IGA testing. The training and IGA testing method will be compared with field IGA test score to determine which method best predicts passing the field IGA test.

Trachoma graders are currently trained using either slide- or app-based testing systems. The investigators want to formally assess whether the app-based training and testing system leads to better field-based diagnosis than the slide-based training and testing system. The investigators will also ask participants for their views on acceptability of the two systems and conduct a cost-consequences analysis of the two systems. Objectives and approach: 1.1 To compare the two classroom IGA tests (app-based and slides-based) in terms of their ability to predict trainee success in the field IGA test. 1.2 To assess whether the kappa score threshold for the classroom IGA tests is appropriate. 1.3 To conduct a cost-consequences analysis of the training systems in order to effectively target the use of an app-based assessment and training system. 1.4 To investigate whether grader trainee characteristics have an impact on trainee performance in the IGA tests. 1.5 To obtain feedback on the app-based system's usability and acceptability. 1.6 To compare the two classroom IGA training methods (app-based and slides-based) in terms of classroom IGA test (app-based and slides-based) outcome and field IGA test outcome.