Evaluation of mobile phone applications to support medication adherence and symptom management in oncology patients

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2018 Nov;65(11):e27278. doi: 10.1002/pbc.27278. Epub 2018 Jun 26.

Abstract

Mobile phone applications (apps), may support pediatric oncology patients with medication and disease management. A scoping review of the literature, a search of the iTunes App and Google Play Stores, was conducted to identify medication and symptom management apps for adult and pediatric oncology patients. Pooled results yielded 28 apps which were assessed for quality using the Mobile Application Rating Scale, with mean overall scores ranging from 2.8 to 4.3. Most apps received low scores in the Engagement domain. Our study assessed the quality of available mobile oncology apps and identified areas for improvement in design and function.

Keywords: cancer; mHealth; medication adherence; medication therapy management; mobile application.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cell Phone
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology / methods*
  • Medication Adherence*
  • Mobile Applications*
  • Telemedicine / instrumentation
  • Telemedicine / methods*