Medication Adherence Support Applications for Chronic Arthritis Patients: Healthcare Providers' Perspective in Saudi Arabia

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2024 Jan 25:310:1056-1060. doi: 10.3233/SHTI231126.

Abstract

Mobile health applications provide chronic disease patients with different capabilities and resources to support medication adherence. The study aims to understand the health care providers' (HCP) perceptions and recommendations about the design features and content of medication adherence support apps for individuals with chronic arthritis conditions in Saudi Arabia. Individual interviews were conducted with ten participants, such as rheumatologists, health educators, pharmacists, informaticians, and representatives from the Saudi Arthritis Association. The thematic analysis is utilised to code data and develop themes that help researchers in the design process. Four themes are identified: informational content, utilitarian, motivational, and socialisation features. The app content should improve arthritis patient awareness about medication management and adherence. Provide features that enable patients to set medication management and self-monitoring goals. The application design should be trustworthy, usable, enjoyable, and accessible for a diverse group of patients and respect patient privacy.

Keywords: Medication nonadherence; chronic arthritis conditions; health care providers; mobile health applications.

MeSH terms

  • Arthritis* / drug therapy
  • Health Personnel*
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence
  • Pharmacists
  • Saudi Arabia