Recent insights from the Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH) Owerri showcase how mobile health interventions significantly improve medication adherence for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). A study conducted from May to July 2024 with 50 participants revealed both the satisfaction and challenges faced by users of mobile health technologies.
Mobile health (m-Health) utilizes mobile devices to support healthcare, aiming to improve outcomes through reminders and education. The study not only focused on the usability of m-Health systems but also sought to understand participant satisfaction after being involved in a six-month intervention utilizing reminders via SMS, voice calls, and WhatsApp.
During the initial phase of analysis, the participants highlighted varying degrees of usefulness derived from the interventions. Many reported enhanced medication schedules, expressing gratitude for timely reminders which helped them develop consistent routines. One participant explained, "I am always rushing out to work and getting busy throughout the day. This reminder is so timely and has helped me develop the habit of taking my medication at the right time."
Of the respondents, 1% expressed satisfaction with the m-Health reminders, identifying them as effective tools for supporting adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). This data aligns with earlier findings from studies showing similar benefits across diverse patient populations. For example, one 21-year-old participant noted, "The message reminders have helped me inculcate the habit of taking the right dosage of my medications," illustrating the positive effects on mindful consumption of their prescribed therapies.
Despite largely favorable feedback, the study also uncovered reasons for discontinuation among participants. Some individuals voiced resistance due to personal beliefs like faith healing and reliance on herbal alternatives. A 41-year-old participant stated, "I stopped taking ART because it goes against my faith in healing. I believe I have been healed and no longer need ART." Such sentiments reflect the real-life challenges of integrating conventional medical treatments with personal belief systems.
Confidentiality played a pivotal role throughout the study. Participants expressed concerns over privacy, valuing discreet communications delivered through m-Health platforms. A 39-year-old female participant remarked, "I appreciate how the text messages remind me to take my medication without disclosing any details about my condition." These sentiments about confidentiality highlight trust as central to the successful application of m-Health interventions for sensitive health concerns.
Barriers to adherence persisted for 18% of the participants, who illustrated logistical challenges related to medical appointments. A 34-year-old female participant shared, "I am considering changing hospitals because someone recognized me the last time I was there." This example emphasizes how stigma and social awareness can deter individuals from engaging with necessary healthcare.
The qualitative research also illuminated logistical barriers, with participants reporting difficulty balancing appointments with work schedules. An 48-year-old male remarked, "My workplace is always very busy. It’s difficult for me to refill my medications and attend doctor’s appointments." This pressure highlights the broader systemic issues impacting healthcare access for many individuals living with HIV.
The findings call for enhanced integration of m-Health systems within existing healthcare frameworks. Recommendations from this study suggest extending the hours of operation at healthcare facilities to accommodate busy schedules and ensuring educational outreach about the importance of ART, emphasizing its irreplaceable role alongside personal beliefs.
Future research focusing on smartphone applications for automatic tracking of medication adherence could also drastically improve the management of ART regimens. The collective insights from this study present clear pathways for enhancing mobile health approaches to support people living with HIV, aligning technological advancement with patient-centered care.
Integrative strategies incorporating user feedback, especially around concerns of confidentiality, will pave the way for improved technological solutions aimed at boosting adherence and fostering supportive environments for PLWHA. Ensuring anonymity and encouraging engagement through comprehensive education about medication adherence will be instrumental moving forward.
This comprehensive qualitative study not only establishes the efficacy of m-Health for medication adherence among PLWHA but also emphasizes the necessity of addressing personal beliefs and societal stigmas. The results reflect the valuable intersection of health technology and patient experience, offering insights to healthcare policymakers and professionals seeking to improve health outcomes.