Use of Smartphone Apps research paper is published

HPRU research paper on the use of Smartphone Apps is published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research

The NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in HCAI and AMR is delighted to announce that the paper An Evidence-Based Antimicrobial Stewardship Smartphone App for Hospital Outpatients: Survey-based Needs Assessment Among Patients has been published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

The study looked at the use of different antimicrobial information resources with a focus on electronic platforms, including apps for portable devices, by outpatients at two large, geographically distinct National Health Service (NHS) teaching hospital trusts in England.

Researchers investigated whether there is demand for an evidence-based app for patients, to garner their perceptions around infections/antimicrobial prescribing, and to describe patients’ experiences of their interactions with health care professionals in relation to this topic.

A total of 99 surveys were completed and analyzed. 30% of respondents reported on the use of health care apps. Analysis of the comments revealed the following main global themes: knowledge, technology, and patient experience.

The majority of respondents who took part in the  study wanted to have specific etiological and/or infection management advice. All required antimicrobial-related information. Also, most supported the use of electronic resources of information, including apps, by their doctors. While a minority of people currently use health apps, many feel that apps could be used to provide additional support/information related to infections and appropriate use of antimicrobials. The study concluded that there is a need for health care professionals to engage with patients and help address common misconceptions around the generation of antimicrobial resistance.

 The full paper can be read here