Using mobile health applications for the rapid recruitment of perinatal women

Abstract

This article describes how two research teams recruited participants using a mobile application for pregnant women. In both studies, a study description appeared on the home screen of a pregnancy application. Interested women were directed to a secure research website to enroll. Enrollment goals were rapidly exceeded. Both studies enrolled participants from across the USA. Demographic diversity was achieved by one study. Mobile health applications are innovative venues for recruiting research participants.