A two-way text-messaging system answering health questions for low-income pregnant women

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the study was to gauge the effectiveness of a low-cost, automated, two-way text-messaging system to distribute pregnancy and health-related information to low-income expectant women. Methods: In total, 20 participants were recruited for a one-month intervention involving the use of cell phones to text pregnancy-related questions to the system. Participants received either a direct answer or encouragement to seek answers from health care providers. Pre- and post-tests as well as a focus group at the end of the intervention were conducted. Results: Participants uniformly found the system easy to use and accessible. Using the system increased levels of perceived pregnancy-related knowledge and facilitated patient-provider communication. Moreover, participants reported significant reductions in stress and depression and improved mental health after using the system. The system responded to most known questions quickly and accurately, and also encountered many new topics and linguistic expressions. Conclusion: Overall, the data indicated that the text messaging system offered psychological benefits and promoted health communication by providing health information and encouraging patient-provider communication. Practice implications: An automated, two-way text messaging system is an efficient, cost-effective, and acceptable method for providing health information to low-income pregnant women. © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.