Contextualizing Information Needs of Patients with Chronic Conditions Using Smartphones

Abstract

Having become integral to daily life, smartphones become a main tool in addressing daily information needs. Smartphones provide immediate and ubiquitous access to the internet. Mobile apps are becoming popular resources for the general public and patients to obtain health-related information and to self-manage their health. Little is known about patients' needs for information in the context of their phone use. Thus, this study investigates the context of emergence of information needs of diabetes patients using smartphones. This study focuses on the chronic disease type 2 diabetes because patients with this condition are required to take an active role in managing their condition on a daily basis. This study employs employ a web-based survey using the critical incident technique. This study has theoretical significance and practical implications. Information needs should be conceptualized in the contexts that give rise to them. This study will enrich our understanding of multi-faceted information needs related to chronic disease self-care in daily life. Understanding the information needs of diabetes patients and the contexts for the needs is necessary to help researchers and designers develop mobile services to satisfy patients' needs and requirements.