What is the impact of mobile health applications on patient engagement and health management?
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Impact of Mobile Health Applications on Patient Engagement and Health Management
Introduction to Mobile Health Applications and Patient Engagement
Mobile health (mHealth) applications have emerged as a transformative tool in the healthcare industry, significantly impacting patient engagement and health management. These applications provide patients with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to actively participate in their healthcare, which is crucial for improving health outcomes, behaviors, and reducing healthcare costs.
Persuasive Features and Behavior Change Techniques
A systematic literature review and meta-analysis identified eleven Persuasive System Design (PSD) features in mHealth applications that enhance patient engagement, particularly for managing chronic diseases. These features, combined with Behavior Change Techniques (BCTs), have been shown to positively influence patient behavior and engagement. The integration of these features into mHealth applications can lead to better health management and patient outcomes.
Enhancing Patient-Provider Relationships
The use of mHealth applications has been found to positively influence the relationship between patients and healthcare providers. Patients reported improved communication and a stronger sense of collaboration with their healthcare professionals, which facilitated a more relationship-centered approach to care. This shift allows patients to take a more active role in managing their health, supported by their providers.
Shared Decision Making and Patient Empowerment
mHealth applications play a crucial role in promoting shared decision-making (SDM) by empowering patients. Studies have shown that individuals using wellness apps are more likely to discuss their health conditions with providers, especially those with multiple chronic conditions. This increased communication fosters a collaborative environment where patients feel more involved in their healthcare decisions.
Knowledge Improvement and Quality of Life
Research on mHealth applications for managing specific conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, has demonstrated significant improvements in patient knowledge, behavior, and quality of life. These applications help patients adhere to medication regimens and improve their overall health management. The positive user engagement and acceptability of these apps further highlight their potential in enhancing patient outcomes.
Addressing Challenges in Low-Income Populations
While mHealth applications offer numerous benefits, there are challenges in their adoption, particularly among low-income populations. Barriers such as limited health literacy, lack of empowerment, and mistrust of healthcare systems can hinder the effective use of these applications. However, interventions like the involvement of community health workers (CHWs) can help bridge this gap by supporting patients in understanding and using mHealth technologies.
Overcoming Participant Engagement and Retention Issues
One of the significant challenges in mHealth studies is participant engagement and retention. Factors such as feedback, appropriate reminders, and in-app support from peers or coaches have been identified as crucial for maintaining engagement. Addressing technical difficulties and ensuring the app's usefulness are also essential for retaining participants. These insights can guide the development of more effective mHealth applications.
General Practitioners' Perspectives
General practitioners (GPs) view patient-focused health apps positively, recognizing their potential to complement patient management. GPs suggest that integrating app data into consultations and promoting app usage can enhance patient care. However, further work is needed to incorporate these apps into current practices effectively.
Conclusion
Mobile health applications have a profound impact on patient engagement and health management. By incorporating persuasive features, enhancing patient-provider relationships, and addressing barriers to adoption, these applications can significantly improve health outcomes. Continued research and development are essential to optimize mHealth applications for diverse populations and ensure their effective integration into healthcare practices.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Persuasive features for patient engagement through mHealth applications in managing chronic conditions: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis
The influence of mobile health applications on patient - healthcare provider relationships: A systematic, narrative review.
Informing Patient-Provider Engagement for Shared Decision Making Through Mobile Health Applications
Mobile health applications for managing atrial fibrillation for healthcare professionals and patients: a systematic review.
User Engagement in Mobile Health Applications
Mobile Health Application Solutions
Patient engagement in clinical research through mobile technology
Patients’ use of mobile health applications: what general practitioners think
Challenges in Participant Engagement and Retention Using Mobile Health Apps: Literature Review
Use of Mobile Health Applications in Low-Income Populations: A Prospective Study of Facilitators and Barriers.
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