Background
Osteoarthritis (OA) affects one in eight adults and costs the Canadian healthcare system billions each year. Despite extensive research, effective treatments to halt or reverse OA are still not available. Accurate and objective methods for assessing OA and monitoring its progression are crucial to identifying the best therapies for each patient.
Our project aims to address this need by developing Arth-Assist, an artificial intelligence (AI) tool designed to analyze MRI scans for precise detection of OA-related changes. Unlike traditional methods, which are subjective and vary betw-een radiologists, Arth-Assist provides consistent and objective results. This tool has the potential to revolutionize OA care by identifying inflammation and damage markers that predict disease progression and response to treatments.

Roles and Responsibilities
We are seeking patients with OA to collaborate in the co-development and testing of Arth-Assist. As a patient partner, you will collaborate with our team to ensure the tool meets the real-world needs of those with OA. Your insights and experiences will be invaluable in refining Arth-Assist and making it a practical tool for healthcare providers and patients alike.
Patient partners will:
– Assist in writing and editing grant applications
– Provide feedback on the AI tool and its usability
– Co-facilitate focus groups and interviews to share experiences
– Help identify barriers and facilitators to implementing Arth-Assist in clinical settings
– Collaborate in evaluating the tool’s effectiveness in real-world applications
– Help publish findings in scientific papers

Time Commitment
The study is planned to continue for 2 years (June 2024 – June 2026). Patient partners should expect to attend meetings as often as every month, either virtually or in-person, and provide feedback on documents as needed. Engagement is flexible and can be adjusted to fit your availability and interest.

Compensation/Reimbursement
Patient partners will be offered compensation for their time and contributions as per guidelines from the AbSPORU Patient Partner Appreciation Guidelines. Study related expenses, including parking, travel, or other related expenses anticipated will also be reimbursed (if applicable).

For more information or to apply, please contact
Steel McDonald – Master’s Student
steel1@ualberta.ca