[Analysis of skills and perceptions regarding mHealth in the management of chronic patients by primary care professionals].

Abstract

Objective: To examine the perceptions of primary care professionals regarding the integration and effectiveness of mHealth in managing patients with chronic conditions, as well as their digital skills.

Design: Descriptive cross-sectional observational study conducted from April to November 2023.

Setting: Primary care services in the Health Department of Denia, Alicante, Spain.

Participants: Professionals in nursing, medicine, and physiotherapy.

Measurements: Participants completed an anonymized ad hoc questionnaire divided into two sections: sociodemographic data and questions regarding the use of mobile health technologies and the internet.

Results: A total of 181 professionals participated, showing high proficiency in managing mobile applications (median score of 8 out of 10; IQR=2), with higher proficiency observed among younger professionals (P<.001). 56.35% had prescribed official or scientifically endorsed digital information. The primary advantage identified for mHealth was the enhancement of patient self-monitoring and self-control (86.74%). However, 88.95% noted the difficulty of using mobile technologies depending on patient type as a disadvantage. 64.64% believed mHealth should be targeted towards patients or caregivers dealing with cardiometabolic or respiratory chronic conditions.

Conclusions: The study underscores a generally positive perception of mHealth among primary care professionals, highlighting their technological competence. It also emphasizes the potential of mHealth to improve patient self-management and enhance electronic documentation of patient follow-up. Addressing the digital divide is critical to ensuring equitable access to mHealth and thereby improving health care and outcomes.