User panel sessions and the usability of the Toivo application

User panel sessions were conducted as part of the DiMod project to introduce the peer support application Toivo (created through a collaboration between OLKA, Finnish non-profit organisation; HUS, Helsinki University hospital and HyTe ry non governmental organisation) to test its usability with pre-recruited panel participants, who provided feedback on the application. The Toivo application is a free service providing support and information for individuals with illnesses or disabilities and their relatives. The user panel sessions were organised in Finland and in Estonia, specifically in Tampere, Tallinn and Tartu between December 2025 and May 2026.

The application was perceived as user-friendly, and the digital peer support it provides was considered useful. Cross-country communication was also seen as a valuable opportunity to share experiences beyond national boundaries. As a development idea, participants hoped for concise information packages to support coping in everyday life, as well as concrete exercises, such as home exercises, balance exercises, relaxation exercises, and podcasts attached to the Toivo application. The user panel session in Tallinn also included listening to a Finnish expert podcast produced in the DiMod project. The panelist in Tallinn understood Finnish well, and one of the participants created an excellent AI-assisted visual note based on the podcast.

All the development ideas will be presented to HyTe and OLKA organisations. OLKA is responsible for maintaining the platform and coordinating its development to assess the potential for implementing changes to the application. Some changes are already in progress, including adding links from the application to the updated versions of the Finnish Movement Disorder Association’s websites.

The Toivo application has the potential to be utilised more widely. Healthcare professionals play a key role in guiding patients toward reliable digital services and in supporting the development of their digital skills. The dissemination of information about the Toivo application has been planned to begin in autumn 2026.