Reexamining COVID-19 Self-Reported Symptom Tracking Programs in the United States: An Updated Framework Synthesis (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Early in the pandemic Koehlmoos et al (2020) completed a framework synthesis of currently available self-reported symptom tracking programs for COVID-19. This framework described the programs, partners/affiliates, funding, responses, platform, and intended audience, among other considerations. OBJECTIVE This current study seeks to update the existing framework with the aim of identifying developments in the landscape and highlighting how programs have adapted to changes in pandemic response. METHODS Our team developed a framework to collate information on current COVID-19 self-reported symptom tracking programs using the 'best-fit' framework synthesis approach. All programs from the previous article were included to document changes. New programs were discovered using a Google search for keywords. The time frame for the search for programs ranges from March 1, 2021, to May 6, 2021. RESULTS We screened 33 programs; 8 were included in our final framework synthesis. We identified multiple common data elements, including demographic information like race, age, gender, and affiliation (all were associated with universities, medical schools, or schools of public health). Dissimilarities included questions regarding vaccination status, vaccine hesitancy, social distancing adherence, testing, and mental health. CONCLUSIONS At this time, the future of self-reported symptom tracking for COVID-19 is unclear. Some sources have speculated that COVID-19 may become a yearly occurrence much like the flu, and if so, the data that these programs generate is still valuable. However, it is unclear if the public will maintain the same level of interest in reporting their symptoms on a regular basis if COVID-19 becomes more routine. CLINICALTRIAL