Psychometric evaluation of the Spanish-language version of the health information technology usability evaluation scale (Health-ITUES).

Abstract

Rigorous development of mobile health technologies must include assessments to ensure interventions are effective and sustainable across diverse populations. Spanish-speaking individuals represent the largest linguistic minority in the United States and globally. Several general and modality-specific usability instruments exist in Spanish; however, a validated Spanish version of Health-ITUES-a health IT-specific, customizable instrument designed for broad HIT contexts-has been lacking. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Spanish-language version of the Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale (Health-ITUES). We analyzed survey data from 125 Spanish-speaking participants (aged 18-64 years), including 18 health professionals from the Dominican Republic and 107 persons living with HIV in New York City or the Dominican Republic. Participants interacted with a mobile health technology and completed the Health-ITUES after use. Psychometric evaluation included exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency reliability, construct validity, and criterion validity assessed through correlations with the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ). Exploratory factor analysis supported a three-factor structure (Impact and Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, and User Control) with strong model fit (RMSR = 0.04) and internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.79-0.96). Within-factor correlations were higher than between-factor correlations, supporting construct validity. Criterion validity was established through significant correlations with PSSUQ subscales (r = 0.44-0.86, p < 0.001). The Spanish Health-ITUES demonstrated strong reliability and validity in both patient and provider samples. Findings will contribute to the rigor of research by developing a linguistically and culturally relevant usability instrument to improve inclusion of Spanish-speaking populations in digital health research.