Human-Computer Interaction-Based Design for Mobile Health Applications for Healthcare Providers: A Meta-Analysis (Preprint)

Abstract

The rapid advancement of mobile technology has catalyzed the evolution of mHealth applications, revolutionizing healthcare through therapeutic interventions and early disease detection. However, a noticeable gap exists in HCI-based design specifically tailored for healthcare professionals.

To investigate the current state of mHealth applications with a focus on HCI-based design tailored for healthcare professionals, and to provide a comprehensive system architecture and design insights that can enhance the usability and effectiveness of these applications for healthcare delivery.

Our systematic review, conducted in adherence to PRISMA guidelines, sourced articles from databases like PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and WEB OF SCIENCE between June and July 2023, starting from 2010. We employed a search strategy involving two distinct keyword groups: Technology and Design, and Medical and Decision-making.

Results: Study Inclusion: Initially, 3,709 articles were identified. After deduplication, 3,277 unique articles were screened by title and abstract, resulting in 146 articles selected for full-text review. Ultimately, 62 articles were included in the final analysis. Design Insights: mHealth apps now emphasize hierarchical data display, interactive visual aids, and collapsible sections for organized data presentation. Color and icons play pivotal roles in enhancing user experience amidst information saturation. Advanced search algorithms, voice recognition, and customizable filters have been integrated, enhancing data retrieval and decision-making. Recognizing the value of diagnostic recommendations in emergency care can guide developers in prioritizing such features. System Architecture: Our research introduces a comprehensive system architecture diagram, emphasizing the seamless integration of the front-end, middle-tier, and back-end components. The front-end interface focuses on elevating patient-doctor communication, the middle-tier serves as the hub of data processing and interaction, and the back-end infrastructure ensures secure and real-time data management and analysis. The integration of advanced features like machine learning and natural language processing tailors interfaces for different clinical scenarios. Limitations: The categorization method employed might oversimplify complex interventions or technologies. Our reliance on existing literature to construct the system architecture diagram could introduce biases. While our categorization offers insights, it's crucial to consider study limitations when extrapolating implications to broader healthcare settings.

Conclusions: Our meta-analysis underscores the transformative capabilities of mHealth apps rooted in HCI principles, emphasizing the importance of user-centered design in the future of healthcare delivery. The integration of advanced features and a comprehensive system architecture promises improved patient experiences and cost efficiencies. As the healthcare sector evolves, future research should focus on the long-term sustainability and scalability of mobile health apps, especially in diverse healthcare contexts. Rigorous empirical testing and interdisciplinary collaboration will be pivotal in refining our understanding of mHealth app usability and acceptance.

PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42023441365