RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Facilitating and understanding the family’s choice of injection device for growth hormone therapy by using conjoint analysis JF Archives of Disease in Childhood JO Arch Dis Child FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health SP 110 OP 114 DO 10.1136/adc.2006.105353 VO 93 IS 2 A1 S F Ahmed A1 W A Smith A1 C Blamires YR 2008 UL http://adc.bmj.com/content/93/2/110.abstract AB Background: Conjoint analysis involves the measurement of consumer preferences between choice alternatives.Aims and objectives: To investigate the use of conjoint analysis in facilitating and understanding choice of growth hormone injection devices.Method and subjects: 56 patients and their parents participated in an electronic, computer-based interview. The interview took a median time of 18 min (range 12–30) and allowed an immediate matching of injection devices to the family’s preferences.Results: Amongst the key drivers of choice, lack of bruising was rated highest and designated an index of 100. Compared to this, the remaining attributes in order of desirability were: auto-injector (98), lack of pain (93), lightweight (88), silent (82), ready-mixed (77), ease of holding (69), telephone helpline (66), needle-free (62), small size (60), nurse support (47), hidden needle (45), stored in fridge (13) and home delivery (6). Out of the 17 families who had already chosen a device previously by discussion with the clinic nurse, the computer model placed their device either as first or second out of seven devices tested.Conclusion: Adaptive or interactive conjoint analysis applied at the patient level can facilitate the choice-making process whilst providing an insight into the relative importance of the key features that influence choice.