Health-related Apps Research Articles

O85 THE ACCEPTANCE, ADOPTION AND ACCESSIBILITY OF HEALTH TECHNOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT ON HOME BLOOD PRESSURE AMONG 18,867 PARTICIPANTS IN HONG KONG

Objective: Various health-related Apps have been launched to aid home blood pressure (HBP) self-management. This study aimed to investigate the acceptance, adoption, and accessibility of the HBP self-monitoring App using either photo recognition or manual input for the HBP records in Asia population. Design and Method: The participants downloaded HealthCap, the HBP self-monitoring App, aged 18 or above with at least 10 BP records were included. Elderly participants were selected from a community-based cohort for HBP self-monitoring. Well-being surveys were conducted to assess the demographic and morbidity. All participants were categorized into 2 groups, photo recognition and manually record input. Photo recognition was defined as using camera to capture the numbers on BP device for BP record upload. Manual record input was defined as selecting the number on the App. Logistic regression has been used to investigate the predictors among the group of photo recognition and manual input. Results: Total of 2,284,026 BP records collected from 18,867 participants in Hong Kong from June 2018 to November 2023. Among the 8,970 participants who met the inclusion criteria, BP records collected by photo recognition, manual input and mixture of both methods were 2,475(28%), 2,621(29%) and 3,892(43%) respectively. The mean frequency of weekly BP measurement was 4.21±7.91 times, the mean duration was 16 months, maximum was 37 months. The mean age of the participants using photo recognition, manual input and mixture were 63.81±13.14, 65.09±13.49 and 64.43±12.87 respectively. A subgroup of 1,321 elderlies aged 55 or above was analyzed with their characteristics. Logistic regression was applied to compare the group of photo recognition and manual input (Table 1). Elderlies living with children tended to use photo recognition. Less sarcopenia and those self-reported memory complaint without worries also tended to use photo recognition. Conclusion: Younger age, lower morbidity, and living with children are associated with higher usage of photo recognition for HBP self-management. Elderlies showed high acceptance, adoption, and accessibility of health technological management. Table 1. Multivariate Analysis for the Usage of Photo Recognition on Blood Pressure Monitoring.

Evaluation criteria for lifestyle applications – The role of MAUQ factors in satisfaction

Abstract The most common health-related apps are lifestyle apps, i.e., fitness, nutrition, diet, and meditation apps, which account for half of all m-health apps on the market. Mobile app-based interventions have been shown to be effective in improving diet-related health outcomes. The aim of this study is to map the usage patterns of lifestyle apps (fitness, diet, and relaxation apps) and identify the role of each factor in the usability of MAUQ (m-Health App Usability Questionnaire) factor - ease of use, interface satisfaction, and usefulness - in overall satisfaction. Data were collected through an online survey in Hungary with 348 users of various lifestyle applications, i.e., fitness (30.2%), nutrition (31.3%), and mindfulness (38.5%) apps. Respondents showed a preference for free apps over paid ones and predominantly used iOS operating systems. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) method was used to identify the role of usability dimensions in overall satisfaction. The satisfaction of lifestyle app users is positively influenced by ‘Ease of Use’ and ‘Interface and Satisfaction’. However, effectiveness (positive physical and mental health outcomes) negatively influences satisfaction. Research can be particularly useful for app developers, as usability and design (features) play a particularly important role in satisfaction, so these are primary considerations in development.

Patients with Heart Failure: Internet Use and Mobile Health Perceptions.

Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome noted on approximately one in eight death certificates in the United States. Vital to reducing complications of heart failure and preventing hospital readmissions is adherence to heart failure self-care routines. Mobile health offers promising opportunities for enhancing self-care behaviors by facilitating tracking and timely reminders. We sought to investigate three characteristics of heart failure patients with respect to their heart failure self-care behaviors: (1) internet use to search for heart failure information; (2) familiarity with mobile health apps and devices; and (3) perceptions of using activity trackers or smartwatches to aid in their heart failure self-care. Forty-nine heart failure patients were asked about their internet and mobile health usage. The structured interview included questions adapted from the Health Information National Trends Survey. Over 50% of the patients had utilized the internet to search for heart failure information in the past 12 months, experience using health-related apps, and thoughts that an activity tracker or smartwatch could help them manage heart failure. Qualitative analysis of the interviews revealed six themes: trust in their physicians, alternatives to mobile health apps, lack of need for mobile health devices, financial barriers to activity tracker and smartwatch ownership, benefits of tracking and reminders, and uncertainty of their potential due to lack of knowledge. Trust in their physicians was a major factor for heart failure patients who reported not searching for health information on the internet. While those who used mobile health technologies found them useful, patients who did not use them were generally unaware of or unknowledgeable about them. Considering patients' preferences for recommendations from their physicians and tendency to search for heart failure information including treatment and management options, patient-provider discussions about mobile health may improve patient knowledge and impact their usage.

A study to determine if the fluid heart tracker app supports patient decision-making at the onset of worsening heart failure

Abstract Background Delay in seeking early intervention for worsening heart failure (HF) can result in poorer patient outcomes, hospital admission and increased risk of mortality (Andersen 2017, Matsue et al. 2017, Mikami et al. 2021). Despite the availability of health-related mobile apps for HF self-care, no study has focused on whether apps designed for HF weight monitoring make a meaningful contribution to the decision-making process of HF self-care. The Fluid Heart Tracker App was developed as a simple app to support the patient in the identification of significant weight gain as a result of worsening HF. An Advanced Nurse Practitioner in HF proposed the concept of the app, and it was developed by an Open-Source Volunteer team. It has one feature which is weight monitoring. It does not require interpretation of symptoms. The app has CE approval. It does not have a backend. The Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) has championed the app and the National Heart Programme listed it as a patient resource in the National Model of Care for Heart Failure in Ireland. The app is free to download from play store and the app-store in Ireland and the UK. Pilot study An evaluative, cross-sectional pilot study was initially carried out in potential users from three acute general hospitals. to determine the acceptability and usefulness of the Fluid Heart Tracker-App for patients with HF. This to garner feedback to use to develop, alter or refine the app. Methods Participants downloaded the app and used it to monitor their daily weight for two weeks. A short bespoke questionnaire was developed for the survey. It comprised five valid questions with dichotomous answers and an option at the end for participants to add any additional six comments. Results 31 participations- 13 female. The average age was 72. All participants (N=31, 100%) used the app, found it useful and found it easy to use and all participants would recommend the app to other patients with heart failure. 30 participants used the app daily, while one used it on alternate days. Participants stated that it was easy or very easy to use. Based on these positive results a before and after, quasi-experimental study is currently being undertaken. Aim of current study The aim of this current study is to determine the impact, use and the effect of the Fluid Heart Tracker App on patient decision making in HF. Primary Outcomes 1) Compare if using the app improved previous engagement patterns for weight monitoring. 2) Determine which factors influence engagement with the app. 3) Determine the impact of an app alert to the patient on seeking medical attention for worsening heart failure. Progress to date 179 participants were recruited from 12 HF sites in Ireland. Data collection was completed November 2nd, 2023. Currently the data set is being cleaned prior to statistical analysis. This investigation has been undertaken as part of a PhD study.

A Web-Based and Mobile Intervention Program Using a Spaced Education Approach for Workplace Mental Health Literacy: Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial.

Workplace mental health is an important global health concern. This unblinded, phase-III, wait-listed cluster randomized controlled trial aimed to examine the effectiveness of a mobile health (mHealth) psychoeducation program using a spaced education approach on mental health literacy (MHL) in the workplace. The main interest of this paper was the immediate and 3-month medium-term effect of the program on the MHL of workers. The purposely built mHealth platform was also evaluated as a health-related app. The mHealth platform was designed using the principle of spaced education as a psychoeducation intervention program, with various modules of web-based and mobile materials presented to the participant in a progressive manner. Short quizzes at the end of each module ensured adequate learning, and successful completion qualified the learner to progress to the next level. The trial recruited 456 employees of specific industries with high levels of work-related stress. Participants who were nested in different offices or units were allocated into the intervention and wait-listed control groups using a block randomization process, with the office or unit as the cluster. A separate sample of 70 individual raters were used for the evaluation of the mHealth platform. The Australian National MHL and Stigma Survey and the Mobile Apps Rating Scale were completed through a web-based self-reported survey to assess MHL and evaluate the app. The trial and follow-up data were analyzed by a generalized linear latent and mixed model with adjustments for the clustering effect of work sites and repeated measures. Of the 456 participants in the trial, 236 (51.8%) responded to the follow-up survey. Most MHL outcomes obtained significant results immediately after the intervention and across time. After adjusting for the clustering effect, the postintervention weighted mean scores were significantly higher in the intervention group than the control group for correct recognition of a mental health problem, help seeking, and stigmatization by 0.2 (SE 0.1; P=.003), 0.9 (SE 0.2; P<.001), and 1.8 (SE 0.4; P<.001), respectively. After adjusting for the clustering effect, significant differences across time were found in help-seeking intention (P=.01), stigmatization (P<.001), and social distancing (P<.001). The evaluation of the mHealth program resulted in average scores of the 4 major domains ranging from 3.8 to 4.2, with engagement having the lowest score. The mHealth psychoeducation intervention program using this platform had immediate and 3-month medium-term effects of retaining and improving MHL. The platform was evaluated to have satisfactory performance in terms of functionality, aesthetics, information content, and utility in enhancing MHL. It is anticipated that ongoing development in digital health will provide great benefits in improving the mental health of the global population.

Health Gadgets usage among Healthcare Personnel in the Perambalur Municipality area of Tamilnadu, India

Introduction: Health gadgets are worn 24/7 to capture biometric data. However, there is limited data on the use of wearable devices in India. Therefore, the present study aims to assess the attitudinal and behavioral predictors of use of health apps and to determine the association between the use of health-related apps and various sociodemographic factors.Materials and Methods: We carried out the cross-sectional study among 601 medical professionals using a semistructured questionnaire from November 2021–May 2022. The questionnaire contained six parts: demographic details; knowledge about health gadgets; types of health gadgets; and practice of health gadgets. We analyzed the collected data using SPSS version 21 software.Results: This survey included 340 health gadget users (56.6 percent). Nearly 226 (66.9%) healthcare personnel said the apps were easy and good, and 194 (57.4%) thought the time spent using them was appropriate. Nearly 38.7%of participants had never heard of health applications, and 10.3% have no health apps or gadgets.Conclusion: Using health gadgets or wearable devices was significantly high among healthcare personnel, and the level of satisfaction was also high among them. The influence of social factors like gender and education was also significant for the use of wearable devices.

Developing a Comprehensive List of Criteria to Evaluate the Characteristics and Quality of eHealth Smartphone Apps: Systematic Review.

The field of eHealth is growing rapidly and chaotically. Health care professionals need guidance on reviewing and assessing health-related smartphone apps to propose appropriate ones to their patients. However, to date, no framework or evaluation tool fulfills this purpose. Before developing a tool to help health care professionals assess and recommend apps to their patients, we aimed to create an overview of published criteria to describe and evaluate health apps. We conducted a systematic review to identify existing criteria for eHealth smartphone app evaluation. Relevant databases and trial registers were queried for articles. Articles were included that (1) described tools, guidelines, dimensions, or criteria to evaluate apps, (2) were available in full text, and (3) were written in English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, or Spanish. We proposed a conceptual framework for app evaluation based on the dimensions reported in the selected articles. This was revised iteratively in discussion rounds with international stakeholders. The conceptual framework was used to synthesize the reported evaluation criteria. The list of criteria was discussed and refined by the research team. Screening of 1258 articles yielded 128 (10.17%) that met the inclusion criteria. Of these 128 articles, 30 (23.4%) reported the use of self-developed criteria and described their development processes incompletely. Although 43 evaluation instruments were used only once, 6 were used in multiple studies. Most articles (83/128, 64.8%) did not report following theoretical guidelines; those that did noted 37 theoretical frameworks. On the basis of the selected articles, we proposed a conceptual framework to explore 6 app evaluation dimensions: context, stakeholder involvement, features and requirements, development processes, implementation, and evaluation. After standardizing the definitions, we identified 205 distinct criteria. Through consensus, the research team relabeled 12 of these and added 11 more-mainly related to ethical, legal, and social aspects-resulting in 216 evaluation criteria. No criteria had to be moved between dimensions. This study provides a comprehensive overview of criteria currently used in clinical practice to describe and evaluate apps. This is necessary as no reviewed criteria sets were inclusive, and none included consistent definitions and terminology. Although the resulting overview is impractical for use in clinical practice in its current form, it confirms the need to craft it into a purpose-built, theory-driven tool. Therefore, in a subsequent step, based on our current criteria set, we plan to construct an app evaluation tool with 2 parts: a short section (including 1-3 questions/dimension) to quickly disqualify clearly unsuitable apps and a longer one to investigate more likely candidates in closer detail. We will use a Delphi consensus-building process and develop a user manual to prepare for this undertaking. PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021227064; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021227064.

Prediktori korišćenja sajtova i aplikacija o zdravlju među studentima medicine i sporta

Introduction/Aim: The global digital network allows a fast exchange of information. Students of sports and medicine will be the future promoters of healthy behaviors. The study aim was to examine the use of health-related websites and apps among students of sports and medicine in their final undergraduate study year. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education and the Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia, in the period April-October 2017. A total of 390 students (89 in sports and 301 in medicine) were recruited. Data were collected using an anonymous questionnaire. Results: Students did not differ in terms of frequency of use of health-related websites (79.8% sport vs. 77.7% medicine; ch2 =0.167, p=0.771) and apps (39.3% sport vs. 49.2% medicine; ch2 =2.672, p=0.116). Fitness and diet were the most common topics that all students sought. A stronger influence of online health information on students' health-related decision-making was associated with the use of health-related websites in both groups of students. Additionally, medical students who used the Internet more often were also more likely to read health-related websites. In terms of apps, being female and using the Internet from a younger age was associated with the use of health apps among sports and medical students, respectively. Conclusion: Students of sports and medicine equally used health-related websites and smartphone apps. However, health-related websites were much more used compared to health-related apps. Of all health-related topics, they were most interested in fitness and diet.

Sociodemographic predictors of successful screening and subsequent randomization in a digital health hypertension intervention.

Clinical trials often enroll nonrepresentative participant samples, limiting generalizability of trial findings. The current analysis explores the influences of remote recruitment and screening protocols on participation in a digital health intervention (DHI) to promote the evidence-based Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating pattern. Nourish was a 12-month randomized controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of a DHI to an attention control arm among US adults with hypertension. Participants were recruited using digital approaches; eligible individuals completed several screening steps. We examined associations between sociodemographics and mobile technology use and completion of each screening step and compared those characteristics between randomized and nonrandomized participants (those consented but were screened out before randomization). A total of 678 adults consented to participate in Nourish; 44% of those consented were randomized (n = 301). Those randomized possessed a higher education level (p < 0.0001); were more likely to use health-related apps (p < 0.0001) and wearables (p < 0.0001); and were older (p = 0.01) than nonrandomized individuals. Randomized adults were more likely to use a desktop/laptop/tablet for Internet access (vs mobile phones) (p = 0.01). No significant association was observed existed between sex, race, ethnicity, income, or geographic density of residence and subsequent randomization. Participants with lower education levels or limited experience in using mobile technologies may require additional support to participate in DHIs. Future research is needed to evaluate remote clinical trial procedures and impacts on generalizability to achieve equitable clinical trial participation.

Predictors of Dropout Among Psychosomatic Rehabilitation Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Secondary Analysis of a Longitudinal Study of Digital Training.

High dropout rates are a common problem reported in web-based studies. Understanding which risk factors interrelate with dropping out from the studies provides the option to prevent dropout by tailoring effective strategies. This study aims to contribute an understanding of the predictors of web-based study dropout among psychosomatic rehabilitation patients. We investigated whether sociodemographics, voluntary interventions, physical and mental health, digital use for health and rehabilitation, and COVID-19 pandemic-related variables determine study dropout. Patients (N=2155) recruited from 4 psychosomatic rehabilitation clinics in Germany filled in a web-based questionnaire at T1, which was before their rehabilitation stay. Approximately half of the patients (1082/2155, 50.21%) dropped out at T2, which was after the rehabilitation stay, before and during which 3 voluntary digital trainings were provided to them. According to the number of trainings that the patients participated in, they were categorized into a comparison group or 1 of 3 intervention groups. Chi-square tests were performed to examine the differences between dropout patients and retained patients in terms of sociodemographic variables and to compare the dropout rate differences between the comparison and intervention groups. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess what factors were related to study dropout. The comparison group had the highest dropout rate of 68.4% (173/253) compared with the intervention groups' dropout rates of 47.98% (749/1561), 50% (96/192), and 42.9% (64/149). Patients with a diagnosis of combined anxiety and depressive disorder had the highest dropout rate of 64% (47/74). Younger patients (those aged <50 y) and patients who were less educated were more likely to drop out of the study. Patients who used health-related apps and the internet less were more likely to drop out of the study. Patients who remained in their jobs and patients who were infected by COVID-19 were more likely to drop out of the study. This study investigated the predictors of dropout in web-based studies. Different factors such as patient sociodemographics, physical and mental health, digital use, COVID-19 pandemic correlates, and study design can correlate with the dropout rate. For web-based studies with a focus on mental health, it is suggested to consider these possible dropout predictors and take appropriate steps to help patients with a high risk of dropping out overcome difficulties in completing the study.

Study of Digital Platforms in Primary Healthcare and Competencies for Better Healthcare Services

Digital platforms are revolutionizing primary healthcare delivery in the fast changing healthcare landscape. This study examines how digital platforms affect primary healthcare and what skills providers need to use them. Mixed-methods research combines quantitative study of digital platform usage statistics with qualitative insights from healthcare professionals and patients. The main goals are to examine the presence and types of digital platforms used in primary healthcare, evaluate their usefulness in improving patient outcomes, and determine the critical competencies needed to use these platforms effectively. Electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, and health-related mobile apps are analyzed in the quantitative phase. Digital platforms' impact on primary healthcare will be measured by patient involvement, health outcomes, and service delivery efficiency. Interviews and focus groups with healthcare practitioners, administrators, and patients comprise the qualitative phase. Digital platform usage, problems, and benefits will be discussed. The competencies healthcare practitioners need to use these platforms efficiently will also be studied. Digital platforms improve primary healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and patient involvement, according to preliminary research. However, data security, interoperability, and the digital divide must be addressed. Healthcare providers need digital literacy, virtual communication, data interpretation, and technology adaptation. This study affects healthcare policy, education, and practice. Understanding the skills needed to use digital platforms in primary care can drive training programs and help governments build supportive infrastructure. This research advances the seamless integration of digital technologies into primary healthcare to ensure high-quality, patient-cantered treatment.

Commercially Available Mobile Apps With Family Behavioral Goal Setting and Tracking for Parents: Review and Quality Evaluation.

Goal setting and tracking are well established behavior change techniques. Little is known about the extent to which commercially available mobile apps are designed to guide parents in using these strategies, their evidence base, and their quality. This study aims to review commercially available apps that target parents in relation to setting and tracking behavioral goals for their children. The objectives were to classify the apps' general characteristics, features, evidence base, and target behaviors and assess app quality overall and separately for apps that target health-related behaviors (HRBs) and apps without a health-related behavior (WHRB). Apps were identified using keyword searches in the Apple App Store and Google Play in the United States. Apps were included if their primary purpose was to assist with setting goals, tracking goals, tracking behaviors, or giving feedback pertaining to goals for children by parents. App characteristics and common features were documented and summarized. Two reviewers assessed app quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Descriptive statistics summarized the MARS total score, 4 quality subscales, and 6 app-specific items that reflect the perceived impact of the app on goal setting and tracking, overall and with subgroup analysis for HRB and WHRB apps. Of the 21 apps identified, 16 (76%) met the review criteria. Overall, 9 apps defined and targeted the following HRBs: nutrition and mealtime (6/16, 38%), physical activity and screen time (5/16, 31%), sleep (7/16, 44%), and personal hygiene (6/16, 38%). Three apps targeted specific age groups (2 apps were for children aged 6-13 years and 1 app was for children aged ≥4 years). None of the apps provided tailored assessments or guidance for goal setting. None of the apps indicated that they were intended for the involvement of a health professional or had been tested for efficacy. The MARS total score indicated moderate app quality overall (mean 3.42, SD 0.49) and ranged from 2.5 to 4.2 out of 5 points. The Habitz app ranked highest on the MARS total score among HRB apps (score=4.2), whereas Thumsters ranked highest (score=3.9) among the WHRB apps. Subgroup analysis revealed a pattern of higher quality ratings in the HRB group than the WHRB group, including the mean MARS total score (mean 3.67, SD 0.34 vs mean 3.09, SD 0.46; P=.02); the engagement and information subscales; and the app-specific items about perceived impact on knowledge, attitudes, and behavior change. Several high-quality commercially available apps target parents to facilitate goal setting and tracking for child behavior change related to both health and nonhealth behaviors. However, the apps lack evidence of efficacy. Future research should address this gap, particularly targeting parents of young children, and consider individually tailored guided goal setting and involvement of health professionals.

Comparing Use Patterns and Acceptability of Mobile Digital Devices Between Care Recipients and Caregivers.

The use of smartphones and other digital devices (such as tablets and smartwatches) is important for the aging population to enhance and optimize communications with caregivers, families, friends, and providers. It also provides a platform for app-based activities to promote mental, physical, spiritual, and social well-being and virtual social connectedness. We, therefore, examined types of digital devices and categories of smartphone functions used by caregivers and care recipients in comparison to those without any caregiving roles. The project team has developed a smartphone app based on Buddhist meditative practice principles for the enhancement of the physical, mental, cognitive, and emotional well-beingof older adults and their caregiversand tested it in Galveston, Houston, and Dallas, TX. The study comprised a convenient sample of older adults, including members or volunteers of the International Buddhist Progress Society-Dallas (IBPS Dallas) and the University of Texas Medical Branch Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (UTMB OLLI). The survey focused on people who were 55 years and older (n = 219), with 177 valid responses (~80.8%) meeting the study's inclusion criteria. The survey collected data on (1) caregiving role, (2) demographic characteristics and caregiving concerns, and (3) types of devices, functions, and utilization. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were used to describe and compare patterns of smartphone function/use by the different groups, i.e., caregivers, care recipients, and neither. All of our survey respondents were 55 years and older, and among them, 17.5% were caregivers, 9.1% were care recipients, and 73.4% did not have any role. The majority of the caregivers were females (80.6%), and the average age of their care recipients was 66 years. The care recipients in our sample reported that the average age of their caregiver is only 55 years. Around three-fourths of caregivers reported that they have an app related to health or they are willing to use a health-related app, 32% of them use smart home appliances, whereas only 16% of people who are neither caregivers nor care recipients use such apps. Approximately 42% of caregivers reported taking care of their parents or parents-in-law, and their major concerns are about maintaining their income, scheduling tasks, and updating their knowledge as needed to better care for their loved ones. People use texting or messaging the most. However, the second and third highest utilization are different. The "neither" group significantly spends more time checking email and watching TV; the care recipients spend more time reading and watching TV (sedentary activities); the caregiver group spends more time on phone calls and listening to music. Findings of different patterns of digital device use exist between caregivers, care recipients, and the "neither" group, with 75% of caregivers using a digital device app related to health or reporting willingness to use a health-related app developed from our study. Our findings of their caregiving experiences might alsoinform the design of different intervention programs aimed at promoting mental, physical, and social well-being, improving quality of life while reducing disease/disability burden for older adults, and preventing burnout among caregivers.

Utilization of mobile health applications and determinant factors among health science students at Debre Markos University, northwest Ethiopia in 2022.

High penetration of smartphones and ownership among the young generation increased the utilization of mobile health applications for health management among university students more than ever. Compared to other health service provision mechanisms mobile health service has higher advantages in promoting a healthy lifestyle since it is not limited to time and space. Even though there are numerous studies conducted in the area of mobile health utilization, this phenomenon is not well studied among university students in Ethiopia, Hence this study aims to determine the level of mobile health applications utilization among health science students. A cross-sectional study was carried out at Debre Markos University from April 05 to June 25, 2022 among health science students. For this study, 423 students were recruited from health Science College using a systematic sampling method. The data was gathered using a self-administered questionnaire. Using SPSS version 26 software descriptive analysis, bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were performed. A P-value of .05 at a 95% confidence interval was considered statistically significant. The questionnaire's validity was determined by expert opinion, and by calculating its reliability using cronbach alpha (α = .78). This study revealed that more than half 59% (144/244) of the study participants have installed and utilized 1-3 health-related apps. Among the students who have mobile health applications 38.6% utilize mobile health application several times a day while only 2.1% utilized rarely. Usage history shows that 40% of the study participants utilized the applications for a year, while 15.4% of the students utilized them for more than 2 years. Easiness of applications (AOR = 4.8, 95%CI: [2.1-11.2]), skill AOR = 4.2, 95%CI: [3.8-12]) and trust (AOR = 2.8, 95%CI: [1.6-4.8]) were among the factors that were associated with mobile health applications utilization. Students were asked about the barriers that limit the use mobile health applications and self-reported barriers includes Lack of knowledge and awareness of application benefits, and Lack of adequate time to use applications. The study shows that mobile health applications utilization is moderate relative to previous studies. Mobile health application developers for the young generation should consider healthy lifestyle related applications like fitness and weight loss apps.

Older Adults' Use of and Interest in Technology and Applications for Health Management: A Survey Study.

Older adults face challenges with managing their medications, obtaining health education, and accessing health services. Mobile health (mHealth), defined as any medical or public health practice facilitated through mobile devices, could help to overcome these difficulties. To determine what technologies and apps are in current use by older adults, to explore the types of technologies and apps that may be of interest to people in this age group, to explore concerns about technologies, and to examine any age-related differences. Adults 60 years of age or older were invited to complete a 35-item electronic survey, in either French or English, which was distributed through social media and by email from organizations working with older adults. The survey was conducted in mid-2020. A total of 266 respondents completed some or all of the survey. Most participants had a mobile phone (229/243, 94.2%), and approximately one-third (78/222, 35.1%) had used a health-related app in the previous 12 months; this level of usage was consistent across age groups. Most respondents were interested in using an app to improve their health (171/225, 76.0%), with variation by age: highest among those 60-64 years of age (82/95, 86.3%), lower among those 80 years or older (40/52, 76.9%), and lowest among those 65-69 years of age (6/14, 42.9%). Most older adults were interested in using an app to ask questions of pharmacists (161/219, 73.5%) and to review their medications (154/218, 70.6%). Participants' mHealth concerns focused on costs, disclosure of personal information, effectiveness, usability, and endorsement by health care providers. The study limitations included challenges related to electronic recruitment and survey distribution, as well as a high representation of participants with postsecondary education. These findings suggest that a substantial proportion of older adults are already using and are interested in using mHealth for health information, to ask questions, and/or to review their medications with a health care team member.

Protection of Patient Data in Digital Oral and General Health Care: A Scoping Review with Respect to the Current Regulations

The use of digital health technologies, including telemedicine and teledentistry, has become a necessity in healthcare due to the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic. These technologies allow for the reduction of the workload of healthcare providers and the improvement of patient outcomes in cases of remote monitoring, diagnosis, and communication. While there are no doubtful benefits, there are some counterparts, such as concerns about clinical risks, data security, and privacy protection. This paper aims to review the regulations regarding the use of digital health apps and software in healthcare. This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and the five-step framework of Arksey and O’Malley. Study selection was based on eligibility criteria that were defined using the population-exposure framework. The review of the articles selected (n = 24) found that the majority focused on data security policies in the healthcare industry, highlighting the need for comprehensive regulations and app control systems to protect patient data. The articles also emphasized the requirement for more appropriate research and policy initiatives to improve data security practices and better address privacy and safety challenges related to health-related apps. The review recognized that papers did not report consistent standards in professional obligation and informed consent in online medical consultations, with potential risks for data privacy, medical liabilities, and ethical issues. Digital health has already revolutionized medical service delivery through technology but faces some challenges, including the lack of standardized protocols for handling sensitive patient data and the absence of common legislative provisions, raising concerns about confidentiality and security. To address these issues and deficiencies, regulatory compliance is crucial to clarify and harmonize regulations and provide guidelines for doctors and the health system. In conclusion, regulating patient data, clarifying provisions, and addressing informed patients are critical and urgent steps in maximizing usage and successful implementation of telemedicine.

Wissenschaftliche Evidenz und Nutzerqualität von Mobile-Health-Anwendungen für Menschen mit kognitiven Beeinträchtigungen und deren Angehörige

IntroductionThe range of health-related apps is large, but the scientific evidence for them is uncertain. The aim of this study is to evaluate the methodological quality of German-language mobile health apps for people with dementia and their caregivers. MethodsThe app search was conducted according to the PRISMA-P guidelines in the application stores (Google Play Store and Apple App Store) using the terms “Demenz”, “Alzheimer”, “Kognition” and “Kognitive Beeinträchtigung”. A systematic literature search with subsequent assessment of the scientific evidence was performed. The user quality assessment was conducted using “The German Version of the Mobile App Rating Scale” (MARS-G). ResultsScientific studies have been published for only 6 of the 20 apps identified. A total of 13 studies were included in the evaluation, whereby the app itself was the subject of investigation in only two publications. In addition, methodological weaknesses were often observed such as small group sizes, short study duration and/or insufficient comparative treatment. The overall quality of the apps can be rated as acceptable with a mean MARS rating of 3.38. Seven apps were able to achieve a score of over 4.0 and thus a good rating, but just as many apps fell below the acceptable limit of 3.0. DiscussionThe contents of most apps have not been scientifically tested. This identified lack of evidence is consistent with the information in the literature in other indication areas. A systematic and transparent evaluation of health applications is necessary to protect end-users and better support their selection process.

Cloud Solutions in Global Health Solutions

Digital innovations and their applications in healthcare have changed the current scenario of delivering healthcare services and storing data. Cloud computing is one such technological adjunct that has the capability of storing volumes of medical data that can be accessed anytime through internet from anywhere. Today all smart devices and health related apps designed for lifestyle changes and monitoring of medical problems use cloud-based programs. These applications result in positive reinforcement for inculcating regular monitoring and counselling. The paper critically discusses and summarizes the cloud-aided performance and applications in health and research. Moreover, it outlines the integration of cloud technology in handling drug theft and counterfeiting. The paper explores misconfigurations and associated risk of current technology to comprehend future scope and applications.

Why patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder start, continue or discontinue health-related apps supporting their self-management.

Various apps can be used for self-management purposes as long as these apps meet the individual user's requirements. Clinicians and patients should have a broad view when looking for suitable apps and not limit the search to just professional apps. In developing new apps, patients, clinicians and developers should collaborate in the development process, requirements and design. INTRODUCTION: Self-management is one of the cornerstones in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BD). Complementing interventions by apps are seen as a good opportunity to support self-management. However, there is insufficient knowledge about understanding the use of health-related applications by consumers with BD for self-management purposes. The study aims to gain insight from patients diagnosed with BD about reasons to use, continue or discontinue health-related apps. This study employed a mixed-method design in which 41 participants diagnosed with BD participated in a quantitative survey, and 11 participants also participated in an in-depth interview. The survey showed that 44% (n= 18) of the participants use health-related apps, and 26.8% (n= 11) use those apps consistently. Interviews revealed that adjustability, usability, trustworthiness and the guarantee of privacy were the main reasons determining whether participants used or terminated the use of a health-related app. Although we found that a substantial number of patients diagnosed with BD use one or more apps to support self-management, their use is often discontinued due to content that needs more robust to address their needs. Besides appropriate content, tailoring and persuasive technologies will likely promote the continued use of an app for self-management purposes. Cooperation between those diagnosed with bipolar disorder and health professionals (like mental health nurses) in developing and designing applications that are aimed to support self-management in BD is necessary for successful implementation and adaptation.

Use of mobile applications and health technologies among dementia caregivers with chronic conditions: A cross-sectional study.

Almost 80% of people, who are caring for someone with dementia, have one or more chronic conditions and require self-management support. New technologies offer promising solutions; however, little is known about what technologies caregivers use for their health or in general. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of mobile application (app) and health-related technology use among caregivers who have chronic conditions and care for someone with dementia. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 122 caregivers recruited online and from communities in the Baltimore-metropolitan area. Data were collected with online surveys and computer-assisted telephone interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze survey data. Study participants were primarily female (95 of 122, 77.9%), middle-aged (average 53 years, standard deviation (SD) 17), well educated (average 16 years, SD 3.3), an adult child of the person with dementia (53 of 122, 43.4%), and had 4 chronic conditions on average (SD 2.6). Over 90% of caregivers used mobile apps (116 of 122), spending a range of 9 to 82 min on each app. Most caregivers reported using social media apps (96 of 116, 82.8%), weather apps (96 of 116, 82.8%), and/or music or entertainment apps (89 of 116, 76.7%). Among caregivers using each app type, more than half of caregivers used social media (66 of 96, 69%), games (49 of 74, 66%), weather (62 of 96, 65%), and/or music or entertainment apps (51 of 89, 57%) daily. Caregivers also used several technologies to support their own health-the most common being websites, mobile devices, and health-related mobile apps. This study supports the feasibility of using technologies to promote health behavior change and support self-management among caregivers.