RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 EULAR points to consider for the development, evaluation and implementation of mobile health applications aiding self-management in people living with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases
JF RMD Open
JO RMD Open
FD EULAR
SP e001014
DO 10.1136/rmdopen-2019-001014
VO 5
IS 2
A1 Aurélie Najm
A1 Elena Nikiphorou
A1 Marie Kostine
A1 Christophe Richez
A1 John D Pauling
A1 Axel Finckh
A1 Valentin Ritschl
A1 Yeliz Prior
A1 Petra Balážová
A1 Simon Stones
A1 Zoltan Szekanecz
A1 Annamaria Iagnocco
A1 Sofia Ramiro
A1 Francisca Sivera
A1 Maxime Dougados
A1 Loreto Carmona
A1 Gerd Burmester
A1 Dieter Wiek
A1 Laure Gossec
A1 Francis Berenbaum
YR 2019
UL http://rmdopen.bmj.com/content/5/2/e001014.abstract
AB Background Mobile health applications (apps) are available to enable people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) to better self-manage their health. However, guidance on the development and evaluation of such apps is lacking.Objectives The objective of this EULAR task force was to establish points to consider (PtC) for the development, evaluation and implementation of apps for self-management of RMDs.Methods A systematic literature review of app content and development strategies was conducted, followed by patient focus group and an online survey. Based on this information and along with task force expert opinion, PtC were formulated in a face-to-face meeting by a multidisciplinary task force panel of experts, including two patient research partners. The level of agreement among the panel in regard to each PtC was established by anonymous online voting.Results Three overarching principles and 10 PtC were formulated. Three PtC are related to patient safety, considered as a critical issue by the panel. Three are related to relevance of the content and functionalities. The requirement for transparency around app development and funding sources, along with involvement of relevant health professionals, were also raised. Ease of app access across ages and abilities was highlighted, in addition to considering the cost benefit of apps from the outset. The level of agreement was from 8.8 to 9.9 out of 10.Conclusion These EULAR PtC provide guidance on important aspects that should be considered for the development, evaluation and implementation of existing and new apps.