Authors : Ome Valentina Akpughe; Timothy Olorundare

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 2 - February

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/45dtyb8m

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4d5bs3uc

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10731746

Abstract : Mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) have proliferated rapidly, with over 325,000 health apps available in major app stores. mHealth apps have potential to facilitate patient engagement and promote preventive health behaviors. However, research on their effectiveness for improving health outcomes has been mixed. This study evaluated a mobile app designed to increase patient activation and preventive health behaviors. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with adults aged 18-65 who were patients of a large primary care practice. Participants were randomized to receive access to a multi-component mHealth app (n=150) or placed in a waitlist control group (n=150). The app provided evidence-based features including health education, goal setting and tracking for nutrition/physical activity, encrypted messaging with health coaches, and integration with wearable devices. Validated measures assessed patient activation (Patient Activation Measure), preventive health behaviors ( Preventive Health Behavior Checklist), app usage and satisfaction. Assessments occurred at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Usage data were also collected through the app analytics platform. The primary outcome was change in patient activation at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included changes in preventive health behaviors and app usage and satisfaction. Of the 300 participants, 271 (90%) completed the 6-month study. In the app group, median number of logins per month declined from 8.5 in month 1 to 4 in month 6. The average number of app features utilized was 5.2 out of 8 total features. App satisfaction ratings were high, with 88% of app users rating features as very useful. From baseline to 6 months, patient activation increased significantly more in the app group compared to the control group (mean change 15.7 vs 8.4, p=0.002). The app group also showed greater improvements in preventive health behaviors including physical activity, healthy eating, and medication adherence (all p<0.05). Improvements were greatest for patients with low baseline activation and behaviors. This randomized controlled trial demonstrates the potential for a multifaceted mHealth app to enhance patient activation and preventive health behaviors. App usage was sustained over 6 months. The app may be particularly impactful for less activated patients with poor preventive health habits. These findings indicate patient-centered mHealth apps can be an effective tool for empowering patients and promoting preventive self- care. Wider adoption and reimbursement of effective mHealth tools should be considered for improving population health management and reducing preventable chronic illnesses. An overview of the article, including the purpose, main points, and conclusions. Mention the growth in mobile health apps and the potential benefits for preventive care and patient engagement. Highlight the purpose of evaluating the effectiveness of mobile health apps for improving health outcomes.

Keywords : Mobile Health, mHealth, Patient Engagement, Preventive Healthcare, Health Apps, Health Outcomes.