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Benson J, Lakeberg M, Brand T. Exploring the perspectives and practices of humanitarian actors towards the Participation Revolution in humanitarian digital health responses: a qualitative study. Global Health 2024; 20:36. [PMID: 38671505 PMCID: PMC11055264 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-024-01042-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As crises escalate worldwide, there is an increasing demand for innovative solutions to enhance humanitarian outcomes. Within this landscape, digital health tools have emerged as promising solutions to tackle certain health challenges. The integration of digital health tools within the international humanitarian system provides an opportunity to reflect upon the system's paternalistic tendencies, driven largely by Global North organisations, that perpetuate existing inequities in the Global South, where the majority of crises occur. The Participation Revolution, a fundamental pillar of the Localisation Agenda, seeks to address these inequities by advocating for greater participation from crisis-affected people in response efforts. Despite being widely accepted as a best practice; a gap remains between the rhetoric and practice of participation in humanitarian response efforts. This study explores the extent and nature of participatory action within contemporary humanitarian digital health projects, highlighting participatory barriers and tensions and offering potential solutions to bridge the participation gap to enhance transformative change in humanitarian response efforts. METHODS Sixteen qualitative interviews were conducted with humanitarian health practitioners and experts to retrospectively explored participatory practices within their digital health projects. The interviews were structured and analysed according to the Localisation Performance Measurement Framework's participation indicators and thematically, following the Framework Method. The study was guided by the COREQ checklist for quality reporting. RESULTS Varied participatory formats, including focus groups and interviews, demonstrated modest progress towards participation indicators. However, the extent of influence and power held by crisis-affected people during participation remained limited in terms of breadth and depth. Participatory barriers emerged under four key themes: project processes, health evidence, technology infrastructure and the crisis context. Lessons for leveraging participatory digital health humanitarian interventions were conducting thorough pre-project assessments and maintaining engagement with crisis-affected populations throughout and after humanitarian action. CONCLUSION The emerging barriers were instrumental in shaping the limited participatory reality and have implications: Failing to engage crisis-affected people risks perpetuating inequalities and causing harm. To advance the Participation Revolution for humanitarian digital health response efforts, the major participatory barriers should be addressed to improve humanitarian efficiency and digital health efficacy and uphold the rights of crisis-affected people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Benson
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany.
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Meret Lakeberg
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Tilman Brand
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
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McCarthy MJ, Wicker A, Roddy J, Remiker M, Roy I, McCoy M, Cerino ES, Baldwin J. Feasibility and utility of mobile health interventions for depression and anxiety in rural populations: A scoping review. Internet Interv 2024; 35:100724. [PMID: 38352194 PMCID: PMC10863305 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2024.100724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the potential of mobile health (mHealth) to address high rates of depression and anxiety in underserved rural communities, most mHealth interventions do not explicitly consider the realities of rural life. The aim of this scoping review is to identify and examine the available literature on mHealth interventions that consider the needs of rural populations in order to gauge their feasibility and utility for addressing depression and anxiety. Additionally, we provide an overview of rural users' perceptions about and preferences for mHealth-delivered mental health screening and intervention systems. Out of 169 articles identified, 16 met inclusion criteria. Studies were conducted across a wide range of countries, age groups, and rural subpopulations including individuals with bipolar disorder, anxiety, perinatal depression, PTSD, and chronic pain, as well as refugees, veterans, and transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals. All interventions were in the feasibility/acceptability testing stage for rural users. Identified strengths included their simplicity, accessibility, convenience, availability of support between sessions with providers, and remote access to a care team. Weaknesses included problems with charging phone batteries and exceeding data limits, privacy concerns, and general lack of comfort with app-based support. Based upon this review, we provide recommendations for future mHealth intervention development including the value of developer-user coproduction methods, the need to consider user variation in access to and comfort with smartphones, and potential data or connectivity limitations, mental health stigma, and confidentiality concerns in rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. McCarthy
- Department of Social Work, Northern Arizona University, 19 W McConnell Dr., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Alexandra Wicker
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 1100 S Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Juliette Roddy
- Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Northern Arizona University, 5 E McConnell Dr., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Mark Remiker
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, 1395 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Indrakshi Roy
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, 1395 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Megan McCoy
- Department of Social Work, Northern Arizona University, 19 W McConnell Dr., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Eric S. Cerino
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 1100 S Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
| | - Julie Baldwin
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, 1395 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, United States of America
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El-Jardali F, Bou-Karroum L, Jabbour M, Bou-Karroum K, Aoun A, Salameh S, Mecheal P, Sinha C. Digital health in fragile states in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region: A scoping review of the literature. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285226. [PMID: 37115778 PMCID: PMC10146476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Conflict, fragility and political violence, that are taking place in many countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have devastating effects on health. Digital health technologies can contribute to enhancing the quality, accessibility and availability of health care services in fragile and conflict-affected states of the MENA region. To inform future research, investments and policy processes, this scoping review aims to map out the evidence on digital health in fragile states in the MENA region. METHOD We conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. We conducted descriptive analysis of the general characteristics of the included papers and thematic analysis of the key findings of included studies categorized by targeted primary users of different digital health intervention. RESULTS Out of the 10,724 articles identified, we included 93 studies. The included studies mainly focused on digital health interventions targeting healthcare providers, clients and data services, while few studies focused on health systems or organizations managers. Most of the included studies were observational studies (49%). We identified no systematic reviews. Most of the studies were conducted in Lebanon (32%) followed by Afghanistan (13%) and Palestine (12%). The first authors were mainly affiliated with institutions from countries outside the MENA region (57%), mainly United Kingdom and United States. Digital health interventions provided a platform for training, supervision, and consultation for health care providers, continuing education for medical students, and disease self-management. The review also highlighted some implementation considerations for the adoption of digital health such as computer literacy, weak technological infrastructure, and privacy concerns. CONCLUSION This review showed that digital health technologies can provide promising solutions in addressing health needs in fragile and conflict-affected states. However, rigorous evaluation of digital technologies in fragile settings and humanitarian crises are needed to inform their design and deployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi El-Jardali
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Knowledge to Policy Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lama Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Knowledge to Policy Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mathilda Jabbour
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Knowledge to Policy Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Andrew Aoun
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sabine Salameh
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Chaitali Sinha
- International Development Research Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Benson J, Brand T, Christianson L, Lakeberg M. Localisation of digital health tools used by displaced populations in low and middle-income settings: a scoping review and critical analysis of the Participation Revolution. Confl Health 2023; 17:20. [PMID: 37061703 PMCID: PMC10105546 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00518-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Forced displacement is a crucial determinant of poor health. With 31 people displaced every minute worldwide, this is an important global issue. Addressing this, the Participation Revolution workstream from the World Humanitarian Summit's Localisation commitments has gained traction in attempting to improve the effectiveness of humanitarian aid. Simultaneously, digital health initiatives have become increasingly ubiquitous tools in crises to deliver humanitarian assistance and address health burdens. OBJECTIVE This scoping review explores how the localisation agenda's commitment to participation has been adopted within digital health interventions used by displaced people in low-and-middle-income countries. METHODS This review adopted the Arksey and O'Malley approach and searched five academic databases and three online literature repositories with a Population, Concept and Context inclusion criteria. Data were synthesised and analysed through a critical power lens from the perspective of displaced people in low-and-middle-income-countries. RESULTS 27 papers demonstrated that a heterogeneous group of health issues were addressed through various digital health initiatives, principally through the use of mobile phones. The focus of the literature lay largely within technical connectivity and feasibility assessments, leaving a gap in understanding potential health implications. The varied conceptualisation of the localisation phenomenon has implications for the future of participatory humanitarian action: Authorship of reviewed literature primarily descended from high-income countries exposing global power dynamics leading the narrative. However, power was not a central theme in the literature: Whilst authors acknowledged the benefit of local involvement, participatory activities were largely limited to informing content adaptations and functional modifications within pre-determined projects and objectives. CONCLUSION With over 100 million people displaced globally, effective initiatives that meaningfully address health needs without perpetuating harmful inequalities are an essential contribution to the humanitarian arena. The gap in health outcomes evidence, the limited constructions of health, and the varying and nuanced digital divide factors are all indicators of unequal power in the digital health sphere. More needs to be done to address these gaps meaningfully, and more meaningful participation could be a crucial undertaking to achieve this. Registration The study protocol was registered before the study (10.17605/OSF.IO/9D25R) at https://osf.io/9d25r .
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Benson
- Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, Public Health, The University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany.
- Leibniz Science Campus Digital Public Health, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Tilman Brand
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Lara Christianson
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Meret Lakeberg
- Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, Public Health, The University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- Department Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
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Kim SH, Kim KA, Baek J, Choi J, Chu SH. e-Health for Traumatized Refugees: A Scoping Review. Telemed J E Health 2022; 29:635-645. [PMID: 36169628 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: High prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is reported among refugees exposed to traumatic experiences, while escaping from their home country, entering a third country, and adjusting to a new society. Electronic health (e-health) treatments have been utilized to overcome challenges such as high costs, limited access to care, and a shortage of resources faced by traumatized refugees. Objective: The aim of this scoping review was to summarize the current science on e-health to screen and treat PTSD in traumatized refugees, examine its benefits and challenges, and suggest strategies for future research. Methods: We conducted a scoping review guided by Arksey and O'Malley's 6-stage scoping review framework. Results: Of the 2,782 articles identified, 8 studies were included for the final analysis. Due to the heterogeneity of studies, the synthesis of results was not feasible. However, the findings of individual studies were examined. The most commonly used technology modality was the smartphone (n = 5). One study revealed the possibility of telephonic screening of PTSD to be equally efficacious as in-person screening, and all interventions through smartphone and the internet reported high feasibility and acceptability. Conclusion: e-Health is suggested to be a novel and scalable platform to provide mental health care in settings with limited resources. Larger and highly robust studies in refugee populations with PTSD-targeted, theory-based approaches and diverse technological formats such as video conferencing and virtual reality are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Hyun Kim
- Department of Nursing, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung-A Kim
- Department of Nursing, Gachon University College of Nursing, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jiwon Baek
- Department of Nursing, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea.,Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
| | - JiYeon Choi
- Department of Nursing, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea.,Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Hui Chu
- Department of Nursing, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea.,Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Nursing, Seoul, Korea
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Sifat MS, Saperstein SL, Tasnim N, Green KM. Motivations Toward Using Digital Health and Exploring the Possibility of Using Digital Health for Mental Health in Bangladesh University Students: Cross-sectional Questionnaire Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e34901. [PMID: 35254267 PMCID: PMC8933805 DOI: 10.2196/34901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Digital health is efficacious for the management and prevention of mental health (MH) problems. It is particularly helpful for the young adult population, who appreciate the autonomy digital health provides, and in low-income countries, where the prevalence of MH problems is high but the supply of professionals trained in MH is low. Objective The objectives of this study are 2-fold: to determine whether university students in Bangladesh find using digital health for MH promotion acceptable and to examine motivational factors for using digital health for MH. Methods This study used a cross-sectional survey to examine the likelihood that university students in Bangladesh (n=311) would use different forms of digital health platforms for MH promotion and assessed drivers of intention to use and actual use of digital health generally and digital health for MH through the lens of the Technology Acceptance Model. The results provided evidence that the university student population in Bangladesh is likely to use digital health to promote their MH. Results Social influence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.68, 95% CI 1.40-2.01; P<.001), ease of use (aOR 1.85, 95% CI 1.35-2.53; P<.001), and perceived usefulness (aOR 4.12, 95% CI 1.79-9.51; P=.001) of digital health were found to be significant drivers of the intention to use general digital health, and having an intention to use digital health (aOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.17-3.78; P=.01) had the greatest influence on actual use of digital health. Social influence (aOR 1.71, 95% CI 1.43-2.04; P<.001), perceived usefulness (aOR 8.92, 95% CI 4.18-19.04; P<.001), and use of general digital health (aOR 2.16, 95% CI 1.18-3.97; P=.01) were associated with higher intention to use digital health for MH. The use of general digital health (aOR 4.19, 95% CI 2.37-7.41; P<.001) was associated with the actual use of digital health for MH, as were greater non–stigma-related barriers to using traditional clinical MH services (aOR 2.05, 95% CI 1.10-3.80; P=.02). Conclusions Overall, we see that the use of digital health for MH is acceptable in this population and can be helpful for students who perceive barriers to receiving traditional care. We also gain insight into how to promote the intention to use digital health, which in turn promotes the actual use of digital health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munjireen S Sifat
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Sandra L Saperstein
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | | | - Kerry M Green
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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Wood B, Kallestrup P. Benefits and Challenges of Using a Participatory Approach with Community-based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Interventions in Displaced Populations. Transcult Psychiatry 2021; 58:283-292. [PMID: 33509062 DOI: 10.1177/1363461520983626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The mental health burden of displaced communities is enormous and ever-increasing. Community-based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (CB-MHPSS) interventions are seen as vital in addressing this challenge, and they have been lauded as being integral in the overall multi-level Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Intervention approach in humanitarian settings. This article assumes that CB-MHPSS innately require a participatory approach to truly benefit the targeted population. It explores important benefits and challenges of using a participatory approach with CB-MHPSS interventions, as well as identifying key considerations in their design and implementation. A literature review of the PubMed database, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews, and defined 'grey literature' identified 42 relevant articles. Thematic analysis identified dilemmas raised by many of the authors, including: the disconnect between using a participatory community-based approach and evidence-based medicine; using locally derived versus standardised measures; incorporating local mental health expressions and idioms into the intervention versus using standardised diagnostic classifications; empowering communities versus falling into the hands of local power dynamics and agendas; and trying to allow for sufficient time to develop relationships and build trust with the targeted community. The findings can serve to encourage reflexivity and critical thinking in the design and implementation of future CB-MHPSS interventions, which will be required to develop robust evidence that supports CB-MHPSS interventions in displaced communities.
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Hussein WF, Bennett PN, Pace S, Chen S, Legg V, Atwal J, Sun S, Schiller B. The Mobile Health Readiness of People Receiving In-Center Hemodialysis and Home Dialysis. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 16:98-106. [PMID: 33355235 PMCID: PMC7792646 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.11690720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Mobile health is the health care use of mobile devices, such as smartphones. Mobile health readiness is a prerequisite to successful implementation of mobile health programs. The aim of this study was to examine the status and correlates of mobile health readiness among individuals on dialysis. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS A cross-sectional 30-item questionnaire guided by the Khatun mobile health readiness conceptual model was distributed to individuals on dialysis from 21 in-center hemodialysis facilities and 14 home dialysis centers. The survey assessed the availability of devices and the internet, proficiency, and interest in using mobile health. RESULTS In total, 949 patients (632 hemodialysis and 317 home dialysis) completed the survey. Of those, 81% owned smartphones or other internet-capable devices, and 72% reported using the internet. The majority (70%) reported intermediate or advanced mobile health proficiency. The main reasons for using mobile health were appointments (56%), communication with health care personnel (56%), and laboratory results (55%). The main reported concerns with mobile health were privacy and security (18%). Mobile health proficiency was lower in older patients: compared with the 45- to 60-years group, respondents in age groups <45, 61-70, and >70 years had adjusted odds ratios of 5.04 (95% confidence interval, 2.23 to 11.38), 0.39 (95% confidence interval, 0.24 to 0.62), and 0.22 (95% confidence interval, 0.14 to 0.35), respectively. Proficiency was lower in participants with Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity (adjusted odds ratio, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.31 to 0.75) and with less than college education (adjusted odds ratio for "below high school," 0.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.05 to 0.16 and adjusted odds ratio for "high school only," 0.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.18 to 0.39). Employment was associated with higher proficiency (adjusted odds ratio, 2.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.18 to 4.32). Although home dialysis was associated with higher proficiency in the unadjusted analyses, we did not observe this association after adjustment for other factors. CONCLUSIONS The majority of patients on dialysis surveyed were ready for, and proficient in, mobile health. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NAME AND REGISTRATION NUMBER DIALYSIS MHEALTH SURVEY,: NCT04177277.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael F. Hussein
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Paul N. Bennett
- Clinical & Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sloane Pace
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California
| | - Shijie Chen
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California
| | - Veronica Legg
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California
| | - Jugjeet Atwal
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California
| | - Sumi Sun
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California
| | - Brigitte Schiller
- Medical Clinical Affairs, Satellite Healthcare Inc., San Jose, California,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
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Maloney CA, Abel WD, McLeod HJ. Jamaican adolescents' receptiveness to digital mental health services: A cross-sectional survey from rural and urban communities. Internet Interv 2020; 21:100325. [PMID: 32455121 PMCID: PMC7236053 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2020.100325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving access to mental health resources for young people is an urgent healthcare challenge. As the majority of youth live in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) mental ill health can exert substantial adverse impacts on societies that can least afford it. Digital mental health technologies might help close the treatment gap but we need to understand barriers to implementing these strategies, especially in resource constrained contexts such as LMICs. METHODS We surveyed adolescents (N = 107; aged 10-19 years) from Jamaican communities using questionnaires adopted from previous studies conducted in LMICs. The questions addressed mental health help-seeking preferences, expectations of help-seeking effectiveness, and practical and attitudinal barriers to using mobile-phone-based mental health resources. We present descriptive data alongside exploratory analyses of differences in attitudes and preferences expressed by subgroups of respondents. RESULTS Adolescents reported very few practical or infrastructure barriers to accessing digital mental health resources. >90% of the sample had access to a smartphone, 78% expected that digital solutions could benefit adolescents with symptoms of mental distress, and 56% were interested in using mental health apps to monitor their own mental health. Stigma, shame, and embarrassment were major barriers to help-seeking and formal professional help was only preferred for more severe conditions such as psychosis and substance abuse. CONCLUSIONS Practical barriers are unlikely to impede the uptake of digital mental health resources by Jamaican adolescents. Our data suggest that mental health literacy, stigma, and embarrassment pose more serious blocks to help-seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A. Maloney
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 1st Floor, Admin Building, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, 1055 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0XH, United Kingdom
| | - Wendel D. Abel
- Department of Community Health and Psychiatry, Section of Psychiatry, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica
| | - Hamish J. McLeod
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 1st Floor, Admin Building, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, 1055 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0XH, United Kingdom
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Ashfaq A, Esmaili S, Najjar M, Batool F, Mukatash T, Al-Ani HA, Koga PM. Utilization of Mobile Mental Health Services among Syrian Refugees and Other Vulnerable Arab Populations-A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E1295. [PMID: 32085422 PMCID: PMC7068284 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The global refugee crisis is at its most critical state in history; Syria alone has produced 12 million internally displaced persons, with another 5 million refugees seeking protection across the globe. Faced with the heavy burden of mental distress carried by a massive refugee influx, many host nations lack the service capacity to respond adequately. While mobile mental health (mMHealth) applications and platforms have the potential to augment screenings and interventions for vulnerable populations, an insufficient gender and cultural adaptation of technology may drastically hamper its uptake in Arab refugees. Reporting only papers originating from Middle Eastern and/or Arab nations or refugee host nations, this systematic review evaluates the available literature published between 2000 and 2019 on the usage acceptability of mMHealth in Syrian refugees and other vulnerable Arab populations. We conducted a systematic review in PubMed, PsychInfo, Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify studies that addressed mMHealth implementation in these populations; of a total of 607 articles identified, only 10 (1.6%) available, unique articles met our search criteria. These studies discussed the feasibility and efficacy of mMHealth applications and the barriers to their uptake. The few existing studies show positive impacts of mMHealth on the access to services and on treatment outcomes but also reveal a paucity of literature on mMHealth for vulnerable Arab populations. These findings indicate a critical need for research on the barriers to mMHealth uptake, to bolster service capacity in the Arab Region and in the refugee diaspora of other, non-Arab host countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Ashfaq
- Department of Surgery, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
| | - Shawn Esmaili
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
| | - Mona Najjar
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
| | - Farva Batool
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
| | - Tariq Mukatash
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
| | - Hadeer Akram Al-Ani
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Patrick Marius Koga
- ULYSSES Project University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (S.E.); (M.N.); (F.B.); (T.M.); (H.A.A.-A.)
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Kiberu VM, Scott RE, Mars M. Assessing core, e-learning, clinical and technology readiness to integrate telemedicine at public health facilities in Uganda: a health facility - based survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:266. [PMID: 31035976 PMCID: PMC6489273 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4057-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In developing countries like Uganda, there are shortages of health workers especially medical specialists. The referral process is frustrating to both patients and health workers (HWs). This is due to delays in accessing laboratory results/tests, costs of travel with resultant delay in consulting specialists. Telemedicine can help reduce these problems. To facilitate successful and sustainable telemedicine implementation the eHealth readiness of different stakeholders should be undertaken. This study was conducted at public health facilities (HFs) in Uganda to assess eHealth readiness across four domains; core, e-learning, clinical and technology, that might hamper adoption and integration of telemedicine. Methods A cross-sectional study using mixed methods for data collection was conducted at health center IVs, regional and national referral hospitals. The study was conducted in three parts. Quantitative data on core, e-learning and clinical readiness domains were collected from doctors and other healthcare providers (nurses/midwives, public health officers and allied healthcare workers). Respondents were categorised into ‘aware and used telemedicine’, ‘aware and not used’, ‘unaware of telemedicine’. Focus Group Discussions were conducted with patients to further assess core readiness. Technology readiness was assessed using a questionnaire with purposively selected respondents; directors, heads of medical sections, and hospital managers/superintendents. Descriptive statistics and correlations were performed using Spearman’s rank order test for relationship between technology readiness variables at the HFs. Results 70% of health professionals surveyed across three levels of HF were aware of telemedicine and 41% had used telemedicine. However, over 40% of HWs at HC-IV and RRH were unaware of telemedicine. All doctors who had used telemedicine were impressed with it. Telemedicine users and non-users who were aware of telemedicine showed core, clinical, and learning readiness. Patients were aware of telemedicine but identified barriers to its use. A weak but positive correlation existed between the different variables in technology readiness. Conclusion Respondents who were aware of and used telemedicine across all HF levels indicated core, learning and clinical readiness for adoption and integration of telemedicine at the public HFs in Uganda, although patients noted potential barriers that might need attention. In terms of technology readiness, gaps still exit at the various HF levels. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-019-4057-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Micheal Kiberu
- Department of TeleHealth, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Richard E Scott
- Department of TeleHealth, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.,NT Consulting - Global e-Health Inc, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Maurice Mars
- Department of TeleHealth, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mental health clinicians should understand how technologies augment, enhance, and provide alternate means for the delivery of mental healthcare. These technologies can be used asynchronously, in which the patient and the clinician need not be communicating at the same time. This contrasts with synchronous technologies, in which patient and clinician must communicate at the same time. RECENT FINDINGS The review is based on research literature and the authors' clinical and healthcare administration experiences. Asynchronous technologies can exist between a single clinician and a single patient, such as patient portal e-mail and messaging, in-app messaging, asynchronous telepsychiatry via store-and-forward video, and specialty patient-to-provider mobile apps. Asynchronous technologies have already been used in different countries with success, and can alleviate the psychiatric workforce shortage and improve barriers to access. Multiple studies referred to in this review demonstrate good retention and acceptability of asynchronous psychotherapy interventions by patients. Asynchronous technologies can alleviate access barriers, such as geographical, scheduling, administrative, and financial issues. It is important for clinicians to understand the efficacy, assess the ethics, and manage privacy and legal concerns that may arise from using asynchronous technologies.
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Burchert S, Alkneme MS, Bird M, Carswell K, Cuijpers P, Hansen P, Heim E, Harper Shehadeh M, Sijbrandij M, Van't Hof E, Knaevelsrud C. User-Centered App Adaptation of a Low-Intensity E-Mental Health Intervention for Syrian Refugees. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:663. [PMID: 30740065 PMCID: PMC6355704 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study is to describe the initial stages of the iterative and user-centered mobile mental health adaptation process of Step-by-Step (SbS), a modularized and originally web-based e-mental health intervention developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Given the great need for improving the responsiveness and accessibility of health systems in host countries, the EU-funded STRENGTHS consortium studies the adaptation, implementation and scaling-up of SbS for Syrian refugees in Germany, Sweden and Egypt. Using early prototyping, usability testing and identification of barriers to implementation, the study demonstrates a user-centered process of contextual adaptation to the needs and expectations of Syrian refugees. Materials and Methods: N = 128 adult Syrian refugees residing in Germany, Sweden and Egypt took part in qualitative assessments. Access, usage, and potential barriers regarding information and communication technologies (ICTs) were assessed in free list interviews. Interactive prototypes of the app were presented in key informant interviews and evaluated on usability, user experience and dissemination strategies. Focus groups were conducted to verify the results. The interview protocols were analyzed using inductive and deductive thematic analysis. Results: The use of digital technologies was found to be widespread among Syrian refugees. Technical literacy and problems with accessing the internet were common barriers. The majority of the respondents reacted positively to the presented app prototypes, stressing the potential health impact of the intervention (n = 28; 78%), its flexibility and customizability (n = 19; 53%) as well as the easy learnability of the app (n = 12; 33%). Aesthetic components (n = 12; 33%) and the overall length and pace of the intervention sessions (n = 9; 25%) were criticized in regard to their negative impact on user motivation. Acceptability, credibility, and technical requirements were identified as main barriers to implementation. Discussion: The study provided valuable guidance for adapting the app version of SbS and for mobile mental health adaptation in general. The findings underline the value of contextual adaptation with a focus on usability, user experience, and context specific dissemination strategies. Related factors such as access, acceptability and adherence have major implications for scaling-up digital interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Burchert
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mohammed Salem Alkneme
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martha Bird
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kenneth Carswell
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pernille Hansen
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Heim
- Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Melissa Harper Shehadeh
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Edith Van't Hof
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mental health practitioners should understand the features of current, publicly available apps; the features of novel, research apps; and issues behind the integration of mobile apps and digital health services into clinical workflows. RECENT FINDINGS The review is based on a research literature and the authors' clinical and healthcare administration experiences. Articles searched-on telepsychiatry, telemental health, mobile mental health, informatics, cellular phone, ambulatory monitoring, telemetry, and algorithms-were restricted to 2016 and 2017. Technologies are used in a variety of clinical settings, including patients with varying mental illness severity, social supports, and technological literacy. Good practices for evaluating apps, understanding user needs, and training and educating users can increase success rates. Ethics and risk management should be considered. Mobile apps are versatile. Integrating apps into psychiatric treatment requires addressing both patient and clinical workflows, design and usability principles, accessibility, social concerns, and digital health literacy.
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