Case study

Supporting CKD care with better tools for PACT teams

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Challenge

The VA wanted to reduce the burden of managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and ease the cognitive load on primary care providers (PCPs), who are often the first to detect the condition.

Challenge

Solution

We conducted interviews with members of patient-aligned care teams (PACTs) to understand how they used an early prototype of a CKD management dashboard. In a related project, we also co-designed a mnemonic aid to support PCPs in remembering best practices. We ran a diary study to gather input on ease of use and relevance.

Solution

Impact

The dashboard research revealed PACT members' top priorities and areas of friction. The mnemonic study gave early insight into how a low-lift cognitive aid could help close the gap between primary and specialty care.

Impact

Bold Outcomes

  • Identified PACT team needs and customization preferences for CKD tools
  • Flagged adoption barriers and design improvements
  • Provided early feedback on a PCP-oriented knowledge aid

Bold Outcomes

Result

The teams used our findings to refine both the dashboard and the mnemonic tool, supporting smarter care for Veterans at risk for CKD.

Result