Validation of the Shoebox PureTest audiometry technology for remote data collection in clinical trials.

Abstract

At present, traditional audiologic assessments are required to be performed in clinics and present a considerable burden to patients and sites (e.g., cost, time), particularly in clinical trials that require numerous longitudinal visits. This study evaluated an iPad-based remote audiometry technology, the Shoebox PureTest, for accuracy and usability, and aimed to determine whether it is fit for use in research and clinical studies. In participants with a wide range of hearing sensitivity, the Shoebox PureTest audiometer was determined to be sufficiently accurate, reliable, and usable, and was statistically equivalent to gold-standard conventional audiometry assessments at frequencies of 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz. The user experience survey demonstrated that > 80% of users rated the application and usability as 'good', and the overall satisfaction was rated as 'excellent' by 92% of participants. Whilst there are operational considerations for future use in clinical trials, the Shoebox PureTest audiometer has been shown to be a valid alternative to conventional hearing assessments which can be used for the optimization of clinical research studies.