Information Needs

The LINQ is specifically designed to assess the information needs of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It focuses on identifying two primary types of information needs: (a) when a patient explicitly expresses a need for information, and (b) when a patient’s behavior indicates compromised self-management due to a lack of information. This dual approach helps clinicians tailor educational interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Research consistently shows that patients often forget information provided by healthcare professionals. As a result, when a patient reports not having received certain information, it should be interpreted as an information need, even if the information was previously communicated. This highlights the importance of continually assessing and addressing these needs to support effective disease management.

Unlike traditional knowledge assessments, the LINQ does not measure what a patient already knows but instead identifies gaps where further information is required. This ensures that clinicians can focus on providing relevant and practical information during clinical interactions. Once an information need is identified through the LINQ, detailed patient knowledge assessment may be conducted as part of the clinical interview.

Modifications to the LINQ

The LINQ is designed with patient-friendly language to improve comprehension. The questionnaire uses terms such as “doctor” or “nurse” instead of “health professional,” as patients are more familiar with these specific roles. While adaptations to use more specific professional labels (e.g., “physiotherapist”) are allowed, it is important to recognize that patients may not accurately distinguish between healthcare roles. Any modifications should be made with caution to maintain the questionnaire’s accessibility.

The management of COPD varies across countries. To ensure the LINQ remains applicable in diverse healthcare settings, it can be adapted to reflect local self-management practices while maintaining the integrity of the tool. Please contact us to discuss potential modifications to the original LINQ.

Translations and Cultural Adaptations

Translations of the LINQ are encouraged to expand its accessibility to non-English-speaking populations. To maintain the integrity of the questionnaire, a standardized translation process is recommended:

1. Forward and Backward Translation: Two bilingual individuals are required—one translates the questionnaire into the target language, and the other translates it back into English without seeing the original version. Discrepancies between the original and back-translated versions should be discussed and resolved.
2. Patient Focus Groups: The translated questionnaire should be tested with a focus group of 4-8 patients. Participants complete the questionnaire and provide feedback on clarity and comprehension. If needed, revisions are made, followed by a second focus group to ensure the modifications meet patient needs.

This method ensures that the LINQ remains easy to understand for patients, aligning with its core principle of using patient-friendly language rather than clinical jargon. Through thoughtful adaptation, the LINQ continues to serve as a practical and effective tool in diverse clinical settings worldwid.