Evaluating Smartphone Ownership and Usage for Maternal and Child Health in a Ugandan Slum

Abstract

This research explores smartphone ownership and usage among Ugandan slum-dwelling women, assessing their readiness for mobile health maternal and child health interventions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a survey of 200 women and in-depth interviews with 23 participants. Findings reveal significant smartphone usage and a positive disposition towards receiving health information digitally. Women valued the informative nature and convenience of health messages on their phones. Challenges identified include costs and technological literacy. The study underscores the potential of mHealth solutions in low-income settings, highlighting the necessity for accessible and user-friendly technology. Keywords: mHealth, Maternal Health, Smartphone Ownership, Slum Settings, Technology Acceptance, User Attitude, Uganda.