Factors Influencing the Use of a Mobile App for Reporting Adverse Drug Reactions and Receiving Safety Information: A Qualitative Study

Sieta T. Vries, Lisa Wong, Alastair Sutcliffe, François Houÿez, Carmen Lasheras Ruiz and Peter G. M. Mol ()
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Sieta T. Vries: University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen
Lisa Wong: UCL Institute of Child Health
Alastair Sutcliffe: UCL Institute of Child Health
François Houÿez: European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS)
Carmen Lasheras Ruiz: European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS)
Peter G. M. Mol: University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen

Drug Safety, 2017, vol. 40, issue 5, No 9, 443-455

Abstract: Abstract Introduction A mobile app may increase the reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and improve the communication of new drug safety information. Factors that influence the use of an app for such two-way risk communication need to be considered at the development stage. Objective Our aim was to reveal the factors that may influence healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients to use an app for two-way risk communication. Methods Focus group discussions and face-to-face interviews were conducted in the Netherlands, Spain and the UK. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, patients with a rare disease or their caregivers and adolescents with health conditions were eligible to participate. HCPs included pharmacists, paediatricians, general practitioners, internists, practice nurses and professionals caring for patients with a rare disease. Patients and HCPs were recruited through various channels. The recorded discussions and interviews were transcribed verbatim. The dataset was analysed using thematic analysis and arranged according to the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. Results Seven focus group discussions and 13 interviews were conducted. In total, 21 HCPs and 50 patients participated. Identified factors that may influence the use of the app were the type of feedback given on reported ADRs, how ADR reports are stored and the type of drug news. Also mentioned were other functions of the app, ease of use, type of language, the source of safety information provided through the app, security of the app, layout, the operating systems on which the app can be used and the costs. Conclusions Further research is needed to assess associations between user characteristics and the direction (positive or negative) of the factors potentially influencing app use.

Keywords: Focus Group; Focus Group Discussion; Familial Mediterranean Fever; User Characteristic; National Regulatory Agency (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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DOI: 10.1007/s40264-016-0494-x

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