“Development and Implementation of Novel Chatbot-based Genomic Research Consent”

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a retrospective analysis comparing traditional human-based consenting to an automated chat-based consenting process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We developed a new chat-based consent using our IRB-approved consent forms. We leveraged a previously developed platform (Gia(Ⓡ), or “Genetic Information Assistant”) to deliver the chat content to candidate participants. The content included information about the study, educational information, and a quiz to assess understanding. We analyzed 144 families referred to our study during a 6-month time period. A total of 37 families completed consent using the traditional process, while 35 families completed consent using Gia. RESULTS: Engagement rates were similar between both consenting methods. The median length of the consent conversation was shorter for Gia users compared to traditional (44 vs. 76 minutes). Additionally, the total time from referral to consent completion was faster with Gia (5 vs. 16 days). Within Gia, understanding was assessed with a 10-question quiz that most participants (96%) passed. Feedback about the chat consent indicated that 86% of participants had a positive experience. DISCUSSION: Using Gia resulted in time savings for both the participant and study staff. The chatbot enables studies to reach more potential candidates. We identified five key features related to human-centered design for developing a consent chat. CONCLUSION: This analysis suggests that it is feasible to use an automated chatbot to scale obtaining informed consent for a genomics research study. We further identify a number of advantages when using a chatbot.