Mobile medical applications’ state quo and underlying barriers: review of literature

Abstract Objective To explore the current development and challenges regarding mobile medical applications (mmAPPs), so as to provide reference for application function elevation and quality improvement. Methods We retrieved literature databases like Web of Science, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, China Biomedical Network, time limit was from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2021, and restricted to the Chinese or English language. Results This study concluded with the following six aspects: Domestic and foreign development of mmAPP, reminder function, barriers and challenges (low quality; slow update rate; lack of standard evaluation tool or criterion), privacy and safety concerns, adverse drug event report state (low report rate-related reasons, different countries’ report policies), and current hindrances in the progression (economic worries; personal education level; acceptance and study of technology; rural districts, and low-income countries). Conclusions We should focus on the application's quality elevation rather than quantity, pay more attention to patients’ adverse drug event reports, privacy and safety, and place emphasis on rural districts and low-income countries.