• Identify usability barriers experienced by users with disabilities when interacting with healthcare portals

• Assess portal design through task-based performance, user observations, and think-aloud protocol

• Generate user-informed recommendations to improve inclusivity in digital healthcare interfaces

• Cognitive Disabilities: Mild intellectual disabilities; Autism spectrum disorder (ASD); Traumatic brain injury (TBI); Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Physical Disabilities: Cerebral palsy; Motor impairments due to stroke; Musculoskeletal conditions affecting hand movement

• Demo Patient Portal Interface

Included common functions: appointment scheduling, lab results, messaging, billing, surveys

• Navigation barriers: Confusing menus, inconsistent button responses, and ambiguous terminology (e.g., “Online Forms” vs “Electronic Forms”)

• Cognitive load issues: Overwhelming layouts, unclear labels, and technical language increased user hesitation and confusion

• Emotional barriers: Participants feared making irreversible mistakes due to lack of confirmation feedback or accessible guidance

• Assistive limitations: No font adjustment tools, insufficient visual cues, and lack of screen-reader-friendly structure