Perception Towards the Use of Smartphone Application (Apps) to Enhance Medication Adherence Among Saudi Pediatrics

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to measure the importance of smartphone applications (Apps) in medication adherence in children to help parents and caregivers in giving medication to children to maintain a good health and quality of life, and to improve current clinical practices in adherence to medications among Saudi pediatrics. Methodology: Cross sectional survey to Saudi Arabia population was conducted from March to April 2017(n=405). Data were collected, tabulated and analyzed using Survey Monkey. We present design requirements for building medication reminders that support the routine aspect of medication-taking by linking children’s concerns, (such as games) on taking medications at time. Results: Of the 405 survey participants, the majority of participants 72.5% were not aware by applications of smart device that make easier to take medicines regularly. Eighty percent of participants preferred a mobile app to help their children take the medicine easily and regularly, and 39.8% of them thought that the child will interact with this game, the majority of them 88.6% don’t have any obstacle hinders the use of these updated applications. Fifty percent of them will encourage young patients, to use such applications (App) to help them in their medication adherence. Conclusion: Nonadherence to medication is still represents a fundamental health care challenge. The presence of an application makes it easier for parents to give medication to their sick children. Most children love playing games, there is a high probability of their attachment to this application (App) and it will promote children’s medication adherence. Key words: Patient adherence, Pediatric, Smartphone, Applications, Apps.