Review and Evaluation of mHealth Apps in Solid Organ Transplantation: Past, Present, and Future

Abstract

Background. With the rapid and widespread expansion of smartphone availability and usage, mobile health (mHealth) has become a viable multipurpose treatment medium for the US healthcare system. Methods. The purpose of this review is to identify posttransplant mHealth applications that support patient self-management or a patient-provider relationship and aim to improve clinical outcomes. The interventions were then analyzed and evaluated to identify current gaps and future needs of mHealth apps in solid organ transplantation. Results. The authors found a nearly universal dichotomy between perceived utility and sustained use, with most studies demonstrating significant attrition during the course of the intervention. In addition, interoperability continues to be a challenge. Conclusions. The authors present potential methods for mitigating the identified barriers and gaps in mHealth apps for solid organ transplant recipients.