RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Use of symptom checkers for COVID-19-related symptoms among university students: a qualitative study JF BMJ Innovations JO BMJ Innov FD All India Institute of Medical Sciences SP bmjinnov-2020-000498 DO 10.1136/bmjinnov-2020-000498 A1 Stephanie Aboueid A1 Samantha B Meyer A1 James R Wallace A1 Shreya Mahajan A1 Teeyaa Nur A1 Ashok Chaurasia YR 2021 UL http://innovations.bmj.com/content/early/2021/01/28/bmjinnov-2020-000498.abstract AB Objective Symptom checkers are potentially beneficial tools during pandemics. To increase the use of the platform, perspectives of end users must be gathered. Our objectives were to understand the perspectives and experiences of young adults related to the use of symptom checkers for assessing COVID-19-related symptoms and to identify areas for improvement.Methods We conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 22 young adults (18–34 years of age) at a university in Ontario, Canada. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using inductive thematic analysis.Results We identified six main themes related to the decision of using a symptom checker for COVID-19 symptoms: (1) presence of symptoms or a combination of symptoms, (2) knowledge about COVID-19 symptoms, (3) fear of seeking in-person healthcare services, (4) awareness about symptom checkers, (5) paranoia and (6) curiosity. Participants who used symptom checkers shared by governmental entities reported an overall positive experience. Individuals who used non-credible sources reported suboptimal experiences due to lack of perceived credibility. Five main areas for improvement were identified: (1) information about the creators of the platform, (2) explanation of symptoms, (3) personalised experience, (4) language options, and (5) option to get tested.Conclusions This study suggests an increased acceptance of symptom checkers due to the perceived risks of infection associated with seeking in-person healthcare services. Symptom checkers have the potential to reduce the burden on healthcare systems and health professionals, especially during pandemics; however, these platforms could be improved to increase use.