Health systems and insurers alike are increasingly interested in leveraging mHealth (mobile health) tools to support patient health-related behaviors
including medication adherence. However, these tools are not widely used by older patients. This study explores patient preferences for
functionality in a smartphone application (app) that supports medication self-management among older adults with multiple chronic conditions.
We conducted six discussion groups in Chicago, Miami, and Denver (N = 46). English-speaking older adults (55 and older) who owned
smartphones and took five or more prescription medicines were invited to participate. Discussions covered familiarity with and use of current
apps and challenges with taking multidrug regimens. Participants reviewed a range of possible mobile app functions and were asked to give
feedback regarding the acceptability and desirability of each to support medication management. Very few participants (n = 3) reported current use
of a mobile app for medication support, although all were receptive. Challenges to medication use were forgetfulness, fear of adverse events, and
managing medication information from multiple sources. Desired features included (1) a list and consolidated schedule of medications, (2)
identification and warning of unsafemedication interactions, (3) reminder alerts to take medicine, and (4) the ability record when medications were
taken. Features relating to refill ordering, pharmacy information, and comparing costs for medication were not considered to be as important for an
app.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)