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Jain M, Duvendack M, Shisler S, Parsekar SS, Leon MDA. Effective interventions for improving routine childhood immunisation in low and middle-income countries: a systematic review of systematic reviews. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e074370. [PMID: 38365291 PMCID: PMC10875475 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An umbrella review providing a comprehensive synthesis of the interventions that are effective in providing routine immunisation outcomes for children in low and middle-income countries (L&MICs). DESIGN A systematic review of systematic reviews, or an umbrella review. DATA SOURCES We comprehensively searched 11 academic databases and 23 grey literature sources. The search was adopted from an evidence gap map on routine child immunisation sector in L&MICs, which was done on 5 May 2020. We updated the search in October 2021. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included systematic reviews assessing the effectiveness of any intervention on routine childhood immunisation outcomes in L&MICs. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Search results were screened by two reviewers independently applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted by two researchers independently. The Specialist Unit for Review Evidence checklist was used to assess review quality. A mixed-methods synthesis was employed focusing on meta-analytical and narrative elements to accommodate both the quantitative and qualitative information available from the included reviews. RESULTS 62 systematic reviews are included in this umbrella review. We find caregiver-oriented interventions have large positive and statistically significant effects, especially those focusing on short-term sensitisation and education campaigns as well as written messages to caregivers. For health system-oriented interventions the evidence base is thin and derived from narrative synthesis suggesting positive effects for home visits, mixed effects for pay-for-performance schemes and inconclusive effects for contracting out services to non-governmental providers. For all other interventions under this category, the evidence is either limited or not available. For community-oriented interventions, a recent high-quality mixed-methods review suggests positive but small effects. Overall, the evidence base is highly heterogenous in terms of scope, intervention types and outcomes. CONCLUSION Interventions oriented towards caregivers and communities are effective in improving routine child immunisation outcomes. The evidence base on health system-oriented interventions is scant not allowing us to reach firm conclusions, except for home visits. Large evidence gaps exist and need to be addressed. For example, more high-quality evidence is needed for specific caregiver-oriented interventions (eg, monetary incentives) as well as health system-oriented (eg, health workers and data systems) and community-oriented interventions. We also need to better understand complementarity of different intervention types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Jain
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation, New Delhi, Delhi, India
| | | | - Shannon Shisler
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation, Washington, DC, USA
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Gkintoni E, Vantaraki F, Skoulidi C, Anastassopoulos P, Vantarakis A. Promoting Physical and Mental Health among Children and Adolescents via Gamification-A Conceptual Systematic Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:102. [PMID: 38392455 PMCID: PMC10886329 DOI: 10.3390/bs14020102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid growth in digital technology usage among children and adolescents has highlighted the need for novel approaches to promote their physical and mental health. This paper investigates the viability of gamification-the application of game mechanics to non-gaming contexts-as a potent instrument for health promotion and mental health support. This conceptual systematic review seeks to examine the various published articles promoting children and adolescents' physical and mental health through gamified techniques. These interventions can provide an interactive and engaging platform for encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy nutrition, enhancing emotional regulation, and promoting mental health. The significance of this topic stems from the pervasive use of electronic games, beginning at a young age, which makes them popular educational tools. For the review to be systematic and reproducible, the PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed, and Elsevier databases were searched and the PRISMA method was utilized for the analysis. After analyzing the research data, empirical studies assessing the use of gamification in promoting adolescents' physical and mental health are discussed. In conclusion, gamification has demonstrated promise for promoting children's and adolescents' physical and mental health. It improves motivation, commitment, and adherence to healthy behaviors. However, additional research is required to evaluate gamification interventions' long-term effectiveness and sustainability in promoting health behaviors among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Gkintoni
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | - Fedra Vantaraki
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | | | | | - Apostolos Vantarakis
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
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Rahmadhan MAWP, Handayani PW. Integrated Immunization Information System in Indonesia: Prototype Design Using Quantitative and Qualitative Data. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e53132. [PMID: 38096005 PMCID: PMC10755663 DOI: 10.2196/53132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the volume of immunization records increases, problems with fragmented records arise, especially since the majority of records in developing countries, including Indonesia, remain paper based. Implementing an immunization information system (IIS) offers a solution to this problem. OBJECTIVE In this study, we designed an integrated IIS prototype in Indonesia using the design science research (DSR) methodology. METHODS The stages of the DSR methodology followed in this study included identifying problems and motivating and defining objectives for a solution, design and development, demonstration, evaluation, communication, and drawing conclusions and suggestions. Specifically, this study began with problem formulation and a literature review. We then applied quantitative (questionnaire with 305 members of the public) and qualitative (interviews with 15 health workers including nurses, midwives, and doctors) data collection approaches. RESULTS The resulting high-fidelity prototype follows the 8 golden rules. There are 2 IIS designs, one for the public as immunization recipients and another for health workers. The functionalities include immunization history, schedule, recommendations, verification, certificates, reminders and recalls, coverage, monitoring, news, and reports of adverse events. Evaluation of the prototype was carried out through interviews and a questionnaire designed according to the System Usability Scale (SUS) and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ). The SUS value was 72.5 or "Good (Acceptable)," while the system usefulness, information quality, interface quality, and overall value on the PSSUQ were 2.65, 2.94, 2.48, and 2.71, respectively, which indicate it has an effective design. CONCLUSIONS This provides a guide for health facilities, health regulators, and health application developers on how to implement an integrated IIS in Indonesia.
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Negash BT, Tediso Y, Yoseph A. Predictors of timeliness of vaccination among children of age 12-23 months in Boricha district, Sidama region Ethiopia, in 2019. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:409. [PMID: 37598170 PMCID: PMC10439539 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04234-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional measurement of vaccine coverage can mask the magnitude of timely uptake of vaccine. Hence, the optimal measurement of timeliness is unclear due to variations in vaccine schedule among countries in the world. In Ethiopia, Oral Polio Virus (OPV), Pentavalent, Tetanus, H. influenza type B, Hepatitis B, and Pneumonia-Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) are basic vaccines which are taken at birth, six weeks, ten weeks, and fourteen weeks respectively. Despite its importance, information is scarce about on-time vaccination in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess prevalence and factors associated with on-time vaccination among children of age 12-23 months in Boricha district, Sidama Ethiopia, in 2019. METHODS A community based survey was conducted in Boricha district, Sidama region Ethiopia from January 1-30 in 2019. Study participants were selected using stratified multistage sampling technique. Kebeles were stratified based on residence. First, Kebeles were selected using random sampling. Then, systematic random sampling was employed to reach each household. Data were collected using structured and interviewer administered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with timely vaccination. Then, independent variables with p-value < 0.25 in COR were fitted further into multivariate logistic regression analysis model to control the possible cofounders. AOR with 95% CI and p-value < 0.05 was computed and reported as the level of statistical significance. RESULTS From a total of 614 study participants, only 609 study participants have responded to questions completely making a response rate of 99.2%. Prevalence of timeliness of vaccination was 26.8% (95% CI: 25, 28) in this study. Factors like children of women with formal education (AOR = 5.3, 95%CI,2.7, 10.4), absence of antenatal care visit (AOR = 4.2,95%CI, 1.8,9.8), home delivery (AOR = 6.2,95%CI,4.0,9.3), lack of postnatal care (AOR = 3.7,95%CI,1.1,13.3), and lack of information about when vaccines completion date (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI,1.13,3.8) were factors influences timely vaccination among children of age 12-23 months. CONCLUSION Prevalence of on-time vaccination among children of age 12-23 months is lower than national threshold. Therefore, sustained health education on vaccination schedule and reminder strategies should be designed and implemented. Furthermore, maternal and child health care services should be enhanced and coordinated to improve on-time uptake of vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berhan Tsegaye Negash
- Department of Midwifery, College Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama Ethiopia
| | - Yoseph Tediso
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama Ethiopia
| | - Amanuel Yoseph
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Sidama Ethiopia
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Rahmadhan MAWP, Handayani PW. Challenges of vaccination information system implementation: A systematic literature review. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2257054. [PMID: 37747287 PMCID: PMC10619519 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2257054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, healthcare services have begun to show interest in switching from paper-based to electronic-based vaccination records through Vaccination Information Systems (VIS). VIS have been implemented in various countries, but the study on the challenges of implementing VIS in these countries is still limited. The challenges of implementing VIS need to be understood to become a subject of discussion and anticipation by other countries that are just starting to implement VIS. We analyzed 32 selected publications from 634 initially retrieved. Fourteen challenges were successfully identified when implementing VIS, including interoperability, data quality, security and privacy, standardization, usability, internet connectivity, infrastructure, workflow, funding, government regulations, awareness, skeptical response, computer literacy, and staff-related challenges. The challenges of interoperability and data quality were found to be the most widely discussed by previous studies. In addition to identifying the challenges, this study includes a series of solutions that can be applied to overcome each challenge.
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Ibrahim NM, Ez-Elarab HS, Momen M, Mossad IM, Eletriby SS. A novel wide scale well-baby clinic mobile application: an Egyptian pilot study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:687. [PMID: 37353827 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09720-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Utilization of under 5-year-old child healthcare services in Egypt is considered low, the highest proportion of well-baby visits is mainly for immunization in the first 2 years of age. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have the potential to be a useful and low-cost way to disseminate information about proper nutrition, can be used to monitor children's growth using the official charts of World Health Organization, can also help in accessing vaccine-related information and schedules. OBJECTIVES To assess needs and requirements for a new comprehensive well-baby clinic mobile application (app) covering well-baby clinic service components. Thereafter, to develop the app prototype and validate it. METHODS This study was conducted in four phases: User requirements, development, validation and usage. In user requirement phase, the need for the new app was assessed by performing literature review, market app research and an online survey. In development phase, we developed the novel well-baby clinic app that constituted all well-baby clinic services for children's health monitoring relying on evidence-based information and honoring data safety. In validation phase, after a series of testing, the app was validated using Mobile app rating scale (MARS) by public health and pediatrics consultants to assess its quality. Finally, the app was launched and made available to the public on Android platform. RESULTS Sehhat Tefly app was developed based on the demands and requirements of mothers of under 5-year-old children. The app constituted caregiver, child information and seven service elements: physical growth, developmental milestones, immunizations, nutrition, teething, safety & emergency measures and report. The app quality mean was rated 3.7 out of 5 by the panel of experts. The app was downloaded 1445 times in a 4 month period. CONCLUSIONS Sehhat Tefly app can meet the need for a free, easy and accessible tool for caregivers to track the progress of children's development and wellbeing. It can also provide advice for referral to physician consultation in case of deviation from normal measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M Ibrahim
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, 38 Ramses St., Abbassia Square, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
| | - Hanan S Ez-Elarab
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, 38 Ramses St., Abbassia Square, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Momen
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, 38 Ramses St., Abbassia Square, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Isis M Mossad
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, 38 Ramses St., Abbassia Square, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Sherif S Eletriby
- Faculty of Computers and Information, Menoufia University, Shebin Al Kom, Al Minufiyah, Egypt
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Choi J, Tamí-Maury I, Cuccaro P, Kim S, Markham C. Digital Health Interventions to Improve Adolescent HPV Vaccination: A Systematic Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020249. [PMID: 36851127 PMCID: PMC9963303 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital technologies are being increasingly utilized in healthcare to provide pertinent and timely information for primary prevention, such as vaccination. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review to describe and assess current digital health interventions to promote HPV vaccination among adolescents and parents of adolescents, and to recommend directions for future interventions of this kind. Using appropriate medical subject headings and keywords, we searched multiple databases to identify relevant studies published in English between 1 January 2017 and 31 July 2022. We screened and selected eligible studies for inclusion in the final analysis. We reviewed a total of 24 studies, which included interventions using text messages (4), mobile apps (4), social media and websites (8), digital games (4), and videos (4). The interventions generally improved determinants of HPV vaccination, such as HPV-related knowledge, vaccine-related conversations, and vaccination intentions. In particular, text message and social media interventions targeted improved vaccine uptake behaviors, but little meaningful change was observed. In conclusion, digital health interventions can cost-effectively provide education about HPV vaccination, offer interactive environments to alleviate parental vaccine hesitancy, and ultimately help adolescents engage in HPV vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Choi
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Irene Tamí-Maury
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Paula Cuccaro
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sooyoun Kim
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Christine Markham
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence:
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McCulloh RJ, Darden PM, Snowden J, Ounpraseuth S, Lee J, Clarke M, Newcomer SR, Fu L, Hubberd D, Baldner J, Garza M, Kerns E. Improving pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake using an mHealth tool (MoVeUp): study protocol for a randomized, controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:911. [PMID: 36307830 PMCID: PMC9616622 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06819-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines demonstrate excellent effectiveness against infection, severe disease, and death. However, pediatric COVID-19 vaccination rates lag among individuals from rural and other medically underserved communities. The research objective of the current protocol is to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine communication mobile health (mHealth) application (app) on parental decisions to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. METHODS Custodial parents/caregivers with ≥ 1 child eligible for COVID-19 vaccination who have not yet received the vaccine will be randomized to download one of two mHealth apps. The intervention app will address logistical and motivational barriers to pediatric COVID-19 vaccination. Participants will receive eight weekly push notifications followed by two monthly push notifications (cues to action) regarding vaccinating their child. Through branching logic, users will access customized content based on their locality, degree of rurality-urbanicity, primary language (English/Spanish), race/ethnicity, and child's age to address COVID-19 vaccine knowledge and confidence gaps. The control app will provide push notifications and information on general pediatric health and infection prevention and mitigation strategies based on recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The primary outcome is the proportion of children who complete COVID-19 vaccination series. Secondary outcomes include the proportion of children who receive ≥ 1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine and changes in parent/caregiver scores from baseline to immediately post-intervention on the modified WHO SAGE Vaccine Hesitancy Scale adapted for the COVID-19 vaccine. DISCUSSION The COVID-19 pandemic inflicts disproportionate harm on individuals from underserved communities, including those in rural settings. Maximizing vaccine uptake in these communities will decrease infection rates, severe illness, and death. Given that most US families from these communities use smart phones, mHealth interventions hold the promise of broad uptake. Bundling multiple mHealth vaccine uptake interventions into a single app may maximize the impact of deploying such a tool to increase COVID-19 vaccination. The new knowledge to be gained from this study will directly inform future efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates across diverse settings and provide an evidentiary base for app-based vaccine communication tools that can be adapted to future vaccine-deployment efforts. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05386355 . Registered on May 23, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell J McCulloh
- Children's Hospital & Medical Center, 8200 Dodge St., Omaha, NE, 68114, USA.
| | - Paul M Darden
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Jessica Snowden
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Songthip Ounpraseuth
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Jeannette Lee
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Martina Clarke
- College of Information Science & Technology, University of Nebraska Omaha, 172 Peter Kiewit Institute, 1110 South 67th Street, Omaha, NE, 68182, USA
| | - Sophia R Newcomer
- School of Public Health and Community Health Sciences, University of Montana, Skaggs Building Room 177, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA
| | - Linda Fu
- Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, 11601 Landsdown Sreet, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - DeAnn Hubberd
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Jaime Baldner
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Maryam Garza
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Ellen Kerns
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, 42nd and Emile St., Omaha, NE, 68131, USA
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Shaw G, Nadkarni D, Phann E, Sielaty R, Ledenyi M, Abnowf R, Xu Q, Arredondo P, Chen S. Separating Features From Functionality in Vaccination Apps: Computational Analysis. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e36818. [PMID: 36222791 PMCID: PMC9597419 DOI: 10.2196/36818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some latest estimates show that approximately 95% of Americans own a smartphone with numerous functions such as SMS text messaging, the ability to take high-resolution pictures, and mobile software apps. Mobile health apps focusing on vaccination and immunization have proliferated in the digital health information technology market. Mobile health apps have the potential to positively affect vaccination coverage. However, their general functionality, user and disease coverage, and exchange of information have not been comprehensively studied or evaluated computationally. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this study is to develop a computational method to explore the descriptive, usability, information exchange, and privacy features of vaccination apps, which can inform vaccination app design. Furthermore, we sought to identify potential limitations and drawbacks in the apps' design, readability, and information exchange abilities. METHODS A comprehensive codebook was developed to conduct a content analysis on vaccination apps' descriptive, usability, information exchange, and privacy features. The search and selection process for vaccination-related apps was conducted from March to May 2019. We identified a total of 211 apps across both platforms, with iOS and Android representing 62.1% (131/211) and 37.9% (80/211) of the apps, respectively. Of the 211 apps, 119 (56.4%) were included in the final study analysis, with 42 features evaluated according to the developed codebook. The apps selected were a mix of apps used in the United States and internationally. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the dimensionality of the data. Furthermore, cluster analysis was used with unsupervised machine learning to determine patterns within the data to group the apps based on preselected features. RESULTS The results indicated that readability and information exchange were highly correlated features based on principal component analysis. Of the 119 apps, 53 (44.5%) were iOS apps, 55 (46.2%) were for the Android operating system, and 11 (9.2%) could be found on both platforms. Cluster 1 of the k-means analysis contained 22.7% (27/119) of the apps; these were shown to have the highest percentage of features represented among the selected features. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that our computational method was able to identify important features of vaccination apps correlating with end user experience and categorize those apps through cluster analysis. Collaborating with clinical health providers and public health officials during design and development can improve the overall functionality of the apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Shaw
- Public Health Sciences, School of Data Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Devaki Nadkarni
- Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Eric Phann
- Department of Computer Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
- Department of Language and Culture Studies, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Rachel Sielaty
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Madeleine Ledenyi
- Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Razaan Abnowf
- Department of Global Studies, Belk College of Business, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Qian Xu
- School of Communications, Elon University, Elon, NC, United States
| | - Paul Arredondo
- School of Data Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Shi Chen
- Public Health Sciences, School of Data Science, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC, United States
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10
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McCulloh RJ, Darden P, Snowden J, Ounpraseuth S, Lee J, Clarke M, Newcomer SR, Fu L, Hubberd D, Baldner J, Garza M, Kerns E. Improving pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake using an mHealth tool (MoVeUP): a randomized, controlled trial. RESEARCH SQUARE 2022:rs.3.rs-2070396. [PMID: 36238712 PMCID: PMC9558439 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2070396/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines demonstrate excellent effectiveness against infection, severe disease, and death. However, pediatric COVID-19 vaccination rates lag among individuals from rural and other medically underserved communities. The research objective of the current protocol is to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine communication mobile health (mHealth) application (app) on parental decisions to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Methods: Custodial parents/caregivers with ≥1 child eligible for COVID-19 vaccination who have not yet received the vaccine will be randomized to download one of two mHealth apps. The intervention app will address logistical and motivational barriers to pediatric COVID-19 vaccination. Participants will receive eight weekly push notifications followed by two monthly push notifications (cues to action) regarding vaccinating their child. Through branching logic, users will access customized content based on their locality, degree of rurality-urbanicity, primary language (English/Spanish), race/ethnicity, and child's age to address COVID-19 vaccine knowledge and confidence gaps. The control app will provide push notifications and information on general pediatric health and infection prevention and mitigation strategies based on recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The primary outcome is the proportion of children who complete COVID-19 vaccination series. Secondary outcomes include the proportion of children who receive ≥1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine and changes in parent/caregiver scores from baseline to immediately post-intervention on the modified WHO SAGE Vaccine Hesitancy Scale adapted for the COVID-19 vaccine. Discussion: The COVID-19 pandemic inflicts disproportionate harm on individuals from underserved communities, including those in rural settings. Maximizing vaccine uptake in these communities will decrease infection rates, severe illness, and death. Given that most US families from these communities use smart phones, mHealth interventions hold the promise of broad uptake. Bundling multiple mHealth vaccine-uptake interventions into a single app may maximize the impact of deploying such a tool to increase COVID-19 vaccination. The new knowledge to be gained from this study will directly inform future efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates across diverse settings and provide an evidentiary base for app-based vaccine communication tools that can be adapted to future vaccine-deployment efforts. Clinical Trials Registration: Name of the registry: clinicaltrials.gov Trial registration number: NCT05386355 Date of registration: May 23, 2022 URL of trial registry record: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05386355.
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Shegog R, Savas LS, Healy CM, Frost EL, Coan SP, Gabay EK, Preston SM, Spinner SW, Wilbur M, Becker E, Teague T, Vernon SW. AVPCancerFree: Impact of a digital behavior change intervention on parental HPV vaccine -related perceptions and behaviors. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2087430. [PMID: 35699953 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2087430] [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: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Parent hesitancy contributes to reduced HPV vaccination rates. The HPVcancerfree app (HPVCF) was designed to assist parents in making evidence-based decisions regarding HPV vaccination. This study examined if parents of vaccine-eligible youth (11-12 yrs.) who use HPVCF in addition to usual care demonstrate significantly more positive intentions and attitudes toward HPV vaccination and greater HPV vaccination rates compared to those not using HPVCF. Clinics (n = 51) within a large urban pediatric network were randomly assigned to treatment (HPVCF + usual care) or comparison (usual care only) conditions in a RCT conducted between September 2017 and February 2019. Parents completed baseline and 5-month follow-up surveys. Participant-level analysis determined 1) change in HPV vaccination initiation behavior and related psychosocial determinants and 2) predictors of HPV vaccine initiation. Parents (n = 375) who completed baseline and 5-month follow-up surveys were female (95.2%), 40.8 (±5.8) yrs. married (83.7%), employed (68.3%), college educated (61.9%), and privately insured (76.5%). Between-group analysis of HPVCF efficacy demonstrated that parents assigned to receive HPVCF significantly increased knowledge about HPV and HPV vaccination (p < .05). Parents who accessed content within HPVCF significantly increased knowledge about HPV & HPV vaccine (p < .01) and perceived effectiveness of HPV vaccine (p < .05). Change in HPV vaccine initiation was not significant. A multivariate model to describe predictors of HPV vaccine initiation demonstrated an association with Tdap and MCV vaccination adoption, positive change in perceived effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, and reduction in perceived barriers against HPV vaccination. HPVCF appears to be a feasible adjunct to the education received in usual care visits and reinforces the value of apps to support the important persuasive voice of the health-care provider in overcoming parent HPV vaccine hesitancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Shegog
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lara S Savas
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - C Mary Healy
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Erica L Frost
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sharon P Coan
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Efrat K Gabay
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sharice M Preston
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, UTHealth School of Public Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Stanley W Spinner
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Pediatrics, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mathew Wilbur
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Children's Pediatrics, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Elisabeth Becker
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Travis Teague
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sally W Vernon
- Department of Behavioral Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
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12
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Nievas Soriano BJ, Uribe-Toril J, Ruiz-Real JL, Parrón-Carreño T. Pediatric apps: what are they for? A scoping review. Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:1321-1327. [PMID: 35048178 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04351-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a surge in the development of mHealth apps. Nevertheless, there are no scoping reviews that analyze the scientific peer-reviewed articles of these tools. This research systematically reviews the scientific literature published on health apps targeting children in peer-reviewed journals. It aims to answer four questions: what is the primary purpose of these apps; for what medical specialties and main topics were they developed; whom do they target; and how they were analyzed. The study followed PRISMA methodology, and the search process used the Web of Science Core Collection. The selected terms for the search were "pediatr*" and "app." The initial search resulted in 303 papers which, after applying filters, excluded 187 papers. In the end, 116 articles were deemed appropriate for addressing our research questions and were thoroughly reviewed. The primary purpose of pediatric health apps is to support clinical decision-making, patient education, and patient self-management. The most frequent topics covered are cancer, obesity, and asthma. Hematological oncology and endocrinology are the most frequent medical specialties addressed. The apps mainly target children, their caregivers, or both groups. Most of the apps were analyzed using observational studies, predominantly conducted in the USA, with an average participant sample size of 842. No analyses of development costs were found. These findings can be helpful for the development of future pediatric health apps. What is Known: • Health care has become increasingly digital due to digital health technologies, which have helped to expand the scope of health care. • Digital health technology can be used to improve the health of children. • The increasing availability of smartphones for children and families may enable the use of apps to deliver, promote, and sustain interventions which could lead to long-term improvements in health. What is New: • The most frequent topics covered were cancer, obesity, and asthma. Hematology-oncology and endocrinology were the most frequent medical specialties addressed. • The principal aims of the pediatric health apps were to facilitate clinical decision support, patient education, and patient self-management. • The apps mainly targeted children, their caregivers, or both groups. • Most of them had been analyzed using observational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Uribe-Toril
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Almeria, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - José Luis Ruiz-Real
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Almeria, 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - Tesifón Parrón-Carreño
- Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine Department, University of Almería, 04120, Almería, Spain
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13
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Dirirsa K, Makuria M, Mulu E, Deriba BS. Assessment of vaccination timeliness and associated factors among children in Toke Kutaye district, central Ethiopia: A Mixed study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262320. [PMID: 35085296 PMCID: PMC8794151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Age inappropriate vaccination of children increases the rate of mortality and morbidity. All studies conducted in some areas of Ethiopia were only quantitative in nature and focused on the main cities ignoring rural communities. Objective The objective of this study is to assess vaccination timeliness and associated factors among children in Toke Kutaye district, central Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study with quantitative and qualitative data collection methods was used, for which simple random sampling was used to select 602 mothers/caregivers who have vaccinated children aged 12 to 23 months in the district. The collected data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Bivariate analysis with a P-value of < 0.25 was used to select candidate variables for multivariate logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% CI and p-value < 0.05 were used to declare a significant association. Qualitative data responses were classified and then organized by content with thematic analysis. Results A total of 590 respondents responded to the interviews, making a response rate of 98%. In this study, 23.9% (95% CI: 20.4–27.7) of children aged 12–23 months had received all vaccines in the recommended time intervals. Urban residence (AOR: 3.15, 95% CI: 1.56–6.4), participation of pregnant women in conferences (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.2–4.57), institutional delivery (AOR: 2.5: 95% CI: 1.32–4.20), and sufficient knowledge of mothers (AOR: 3, 95% CI: 1.82–5.10) were significantly associated with the timeliness of childhood vaccination. Qualitative findings revealed that lack of knowledge and lack of information from mothers or caregivers, and inadequate communication with health workers hindered timely vaccination. Conclusion The overall timeliness of the child’s vaccination was low in this study. Residence, participation in a conference, place of delivery, and knowledge of the mothers were predictors of vaccination timeliness. Hence, promoting institutional delivery and increasing pregnant mothers awreness on vaccination timeliness through conference participation is compulsory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuma Dirirsa
- Oromia Regional Health Bureau, Toke Kutaye Health Office, Guder, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Makuria
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia
| | - Ermias Mulu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Senbeta Deriba
- Department of Public Health, Salale University College of Health Sciences, Fitche, Ethiopia
- * E-mail: ,
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14
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Honggo F, Handayani PW, Azzahro F. The antecedents of intention to use immunization information systems and usage behavior. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2022.101107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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15
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Gabis LV, Attia OL, Goldman M, Barak N, Tefera P, Shefer S, Shaham M, Lerman-Sagie T. The myth of vaccination and autism spectrum. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 36:151-158. [PMID: 34996019 PMCID: PMC8694782 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among all of the studied potential causes of autism, vaccines have received some of the most scrutiny and have been the topic of many evidence-based studies. These efforts have led the great majority of scientists, physicians, and public health researchers to refute causation between vaccines and autism. RATIONALE This presumed association and concern has been a major contributor to parents' refusal to immunize their children and has become a major threat to public health in secluded populations over the last two decades, even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of COVID-19 immunizations, sentiments towards this topic were addressed as a public health concern that may influence the ability to overcome the Corona virus worldwide. SCIENTIFIC REVIEW OF DATA Despite the overwhelming data demonstrating that there is no link between vaccines and autism, many parents are hesitant to immunize their children because of the alleged association. Other contributing factors to the myths and conspiracy theories surrounding the association between vaccines and autism include the fact that the diagnosis of autism is typically made after the age of receiving the main childhood immunizations, as well as the occasional occurrence of regression after the age of first year vaccinations. In spite of vast evidence that the main contribution to the increase in incidence is from improvement of the diagnostic process, this rapid and publicized rise in autism diagnoses feeds parental concerns regarding any medical intervention that may be associated with the health of their children. RECOMMENDATIONS It is plausible that with more evidence-based studies linking autism to specific etiologies the myth will diminish and disappear eventually. In an era where conspiracy theories are prevalent on social media, it is critical that evidence-based studies relating autism to specific etiologies be made public, and that information concerning autism diagnosis and causes be made more readily available through social media and parental organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia V Gabis
- Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, Israel; Maccabi Health Services, Israel.
| | - Odelia Leon Attia
- Weinberg Developmental Center, at Safra Children's Hospital, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
| | - Mia Goldman
- Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Noy Barak
- Department of Industrial Engineering at Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Paula Tefera
- Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Shahar Shefer
- Weinberg Developmental Center, at Safra Children's Hospital, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
| | - Meirav Shaham
- Department of Statistics at University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Tally Lerman-Sagie
- Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, Israel; Pediatric Neurology Unit at Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.
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16
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Usability and Acceptability of a Mobile App for Behavior Change and to Improve Immunization Coverage among Children in Pakistan: A Mixed-Methods Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18189527. [PMID: 34574452 PMCID: PMC8469714 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background: Pakistan’s immunization uptake rates are still significantly lower than anticipated despite several initiatives. Lack of awareness, forgetting about vaccination schedule, and vaccine misconception/misinformation are a few of the major drivers that mitigate the rates of immunization. The current COVID-19 pandemic emphasizes the importance of immunization. The significant reductions in regular childhood vaccination during pandemic have increased the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Concerns among parents over possibly exposing their children to COVID-19 during child visits may have contributed to the reported declines. Innovative and cost-effective mHealth interventions must be implemented in order to address the problem of inadequate immunization rates. In addition, it is also critical to understand the end user needs in order to reflect on the highly relevant essence of the customized healthcare experience. Objective: The aim of this study was to learn about caregivers’ attitudes toward the usability and acceptability of behavior-change smartphone applications (mobile phones) for improving immunization coverage in Pakistan. Methods: A mixed-method design was employed for this study. The study was conducted at Aga Khan University, Hospital. Parents visiting the Community Health Center for 6-week vaccination of their children were recruited. The study was conducted in two stages. Stage 1 consisted of qualitative interviews that grasped the parent’s attitudes and challenges to immunization, as well as their acceptability and accessibility of the smartphone-based behavior-change application to increase vaccine uptake. Stage 1 was followed by stage 2, in which data were collected through a questionnaire designed by using data from qualitative interviews. Results: The majority of participants agreed that immunization serves an important role in protecting their child from illnesses that cause morbidity and mortality. Almost all of them emphasized the importance of using a pre-appointment method at vaccination center in order to reduce the waiting time. Furthermore, participants were also interested in AI-based behavior modification applications related to immunization. They also wanted to have applications in their native language for better understanding and communication of related information. In our study, approximately 95.2 percent of participants agreed to accept SMS immunization updates, which was also reasonably high. Lastly, the majority of them identified forgetfulness as a significant contributor to regular immunization. Conclusion: To enhance the uptake of childhood vaccines, overall vaccination rates, and overcome barriers related to vaccination coverage, cost-effective and user-friendly mHealth AI-based smart phone applications are required to raise awareness regarding the continuation of vaccination service and the importance of timely vaccination. Parents’ experiences and attitudes must be considered while designing and evaluating the efficacy of mHealth-based interventions.
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Baghdadi LR, Younis A, Al Suwaidan HI, Hassounah MM, Al Khalifah R. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Routine Childhood Immunization: A Saudi Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:692877. [PMID: 34222155 PMCID: PMC8249725 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.692877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Routine childhood immunization is the most cost-effective method to prevent infection and decrease childhood morbidity and mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected access to health care in Saudi Arabia, including mandatory vaccinations for young children. We aimed to assess the prevalence of intentionally delayed vaccinations in children aged ≤ 2 years during the COVID-19 pandemic curfew in Saudi Arabia, its relation to the caregivers' fear of infection, and identifying factors affecting the caregivers' decision. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered survey that targeted primary caregivers of children aged ≤ 2 years residing in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic curfew (March 4-July 6, 2020). Results: We received responses from 577 caregivers, of whom 90.8% were mothers. The prevalence of intentional vaccination delay was 37%. Upon adjusting the potential confounders, the odds of delaying scheduled childhood vaccination because of COVID-19 pandemic fears were greater among caregivers with higher levels of fear (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.11). Common reasons for delaying vaccinations were COVID-19 infection and prevention of exposure to COVID-19 cases. Conclusion: Intentional vaccination delay leaves young children vulnerable to preventable infectious diseases. Identifying these children and offering catch-up vaccinations reduces this risk. Campaigns to increase awareness about the dangers of delaying vaccine-preventable diseases must be promoted to caregivers in addition to the promotion of home vaccination services. In preparation for future pandemics, we recommend countries consider interventions to control the level of fear and anxiety provoked by the pandemics and media, and interventions for improved access to vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena R Baghdadi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afnan Younis
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hessah I Al Suwaidan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwah M Hassounah
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Al Khalifah
- Paediatric Endocrinology Division, Paediatrics Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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18
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van der Keylen P, Tomandl J, Wollmann K, Möhler R, Sofroniou M, Maun A, Voigt-Radloff S, Frank L. The Online Health Information Needs of Family Physicians: Systematic Review of Qualitative and Quantitative Studies. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e18816. [PMID: 33377874 PMCID: PMC7806443 DOI: 10.2196/18816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Digitalization and the increasing availability of online information have changed the way in which information is searched for and retrieved by the public and by health professionals. The technical developments in the last two decades have transformed the methods of information retrieval. Although systematic evidence exists on the general information needs of specialists, and in particular, family physicians (FPs), there have been no recent systematic reviews to specifically address the needs of FPs and any barriers that may exist to accessing online health information. Objective This review aims to provide an up-to-date perspective on the needs of FPs in searching, retrieving, and using online information. Methods This systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies searched a multitude of databases spanning the years 2000 to 2020 (search date January 2020). Studies that analyzed the online information needs of FPs, any barriers to the accessibility of information, and their information-seeking behaviors were included. Two researchers independently scrutinized titles and abstracts, analyzing full-text papers for their eligibility, the studies therein, and the data obtained from them. Results The initial search yielded 4541 studies for initial title and abstract screening. Of the 144 studies that were found to be eligible for full-text screening, 41 were finally included. A total of 20 themes were developed and summarized into 5 main categories: individual needs of FPs before the search; access needs, including factors that would facilitate or hinder information retrieval; quality needs of the information to hand; utilization needs of the information available; and implication needs for everyday practice. Conclusions This review suggests that searching, accessing, and using online information, as well as any pre-existing needs, barriers, or demands, should not be perceived as separate entities but rather be regarded as a sequential process. Apart from accessing information and evaluating its quality, FPs expressed concerns regarding the applicability of this information to their everyday practice and its subsequent relevance to patient care. Future online information resources should cater to the needs of the primary care setting and seek to address the way in which such resources may be adapted to these specific requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piet van der Keylen
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Institute of General Practice, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johanna Tomandl
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Institute of General Practice, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Katharina Wollmann
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Cochrane Germany Foundation, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ralph Möhler
- Institute for Health Services Research and Health Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Center for Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mario Sofroniou
- Division of General Practice, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andy Maun
- Division of General Practice, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Luca Frank
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Institute of General Practice, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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Camacho-Rivera M, Vo H, Huang X, Lau J, Lawal A, Kawaguchi A. Evaluating Asthma Mobile Apps to Improve Asthma Self-Management: User Ratings and Sentiment Analysis of Publicly Available Apps. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e15076. [PMID: 33118944 PMCID: PMC7661227 DOI: 10.2196/15076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development and use of mobile health (mHealth) apps for asthma management have risen dramatically over the past two decades. Asthma apps vary widely in their content and features; however, prior research has rarely examined preferences of users of publicly available apps. OBJECTIVE The goals of this study were to provide a descriptive overview of asthma mobile apps that are publicly available and to assess the usability of asthma apps currently available on the market to identify content and features of apps associated with positive and negative user ratings. METHODS Reviews were collected on June 23, 2020, and included publicly posted reviews until June 21, 2020. To characterize features associated with high or low app ratings, we first dichotomized the average user rating of the asthma app into 2 categories: a high average rating and a low average rating. Asthma apps with average ratings of 4 and above were categorized as having a high average rating. Asthma apps with average ratings of less than 4 were categorized as having a low average rating. For the sentiment analysis, we modeled both 2-word (bi-gram) and 3-word (tri-gram) phrases which commonly appeared across highly rated and lowly rated apps. RESULTS Of the 10 apps that met the inclusion criteria, a total of 373 reviews were examined across all apps. Among apps reviewed, 53.4% (199/373) received high ratings (average ratings of 4 or 5) and 47.2% (176/373) received low ratings (average ratings of 3 or less). The number of ratings across all apps ranged from 188 (AsthmaMD) to 10 (My Asthma App); 30% (3/10) of apps were available on both Android and iOS. From the sentiment analysis, key features of asthma management that were common among highly rated apps included the tracking of peak flow readings (n=48), asthma symptom monitoring (n=11), and action plans (n=10). Key features related to functionality that were common among highly rated apps included ease of use (n=5). Users most commonly reported loss of data (n=14) and crashing of app (n=12) as functionality issues among poorly rated asthma apps. CONCLUSIONS Our study results demonstrate that asthma app quality, maintenance, and updates vary widely across apps and platforms. These findings may call into question the long-term engagement with asthma apps, a crucial factor for determining their potential to improve asthma self-management and asthma clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Camacho-Rivera
- Department of Community Health Sciences, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Huy Vo
- Department of Computer Science, Grove School of Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Xueqi Huang
- Department of Computer Science, Grove School of Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Julia Lau
- Department of Computer Science, Grove School of Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Adeola Lawal
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, CUNY School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Akira Kawaguchi
- Department of Computer Science, Grove School of Engineering, City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
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Teitelman AM, Gregory EF, Jayasinghe J, Wermers Z, Koo JH, Morone JF, Leri DC, Davis A, Feemster KA. Vaccipack, A Mobile App to Promote Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Uptake Among Adolescents Aged 11 to 14 Years: Development and Usability Study. JMIR Nurs 2020; 3:e19503. [PMID: 34345789 PMCID: PMC8279454 DOI: 10.2196/19503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 90% of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers could be prevented by widespread uptake of the HPV vaccine, yet vaccine use in the United States falls short of public health goals. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to describe the development, acceptability, and intention to use the mobile app Vaccipack, which was designed to promote uptake and completion of the adolescent HPV vaccine series. METHODS Development of the mobile health (mHealth) content was based on the integrated behavioral model (IBM). The technology acceptance model (TAM) was used to guide the app usability evaluation. App design utilized an iterative process involving providers and potential users who were parents and adolescents. App features include a vaccine-tracking function, a discussion forum, and stories with embedded messages to promote intention to vaccinate. Parents and adolescents completed surveys before and after introducing the app in a pediatric primary care setting with low HPV vaccination rates. RESULTS Surveys were completed by 54 participants (20 adolescents aged 11 to 14 years and 34 parents). Notably, 75% (15/20) of adolescents and 88% (30/34) of parents intended to use the app in the next 2 weeks. Acceptability of the app was high among both groups: 88% (30/34) of parents and 75% (15/20) of adolescents indicated that Vaccipack was easy to use, and 82% (28/34) of parents and 85% (17/20) of adolescents perceived the app to be beneficial. Higher levels of app acceptability were found among parents with strong intentions to use the app (P=.09; 95% CI -2.15 to 0.15). CONCLUSIONS mHealth technology, such as Vaccipack, may be an acceptable and nimble platform for providing information to parents and adolescents and advancing the uptake of important vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Teitelman
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Philadelphia, PA United States
| | - Emily F Gregory
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA United States
- Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA United States
| | - Joshua Jayasinghe
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Philadelphia, PA United States
| | | | - Ja H Koo
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Philadelphia, PA United States
| | - Jennifer F Morone
- Yale University New Haven, CT United States
- Veterans Affairs West Haven, CT United States
| | - Damien C Leri
- Big Yellow Star, Inc. Philadelphia, PA United States
| | - Annet Davis
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Philadelphia, PA United States
| | - Kristen A Feemster
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA United States
- Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA United States
- Division of Disease Control Department of Public Health Philadelphia, PA United States
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