Designing a wrist-worn sensor to improve medication adherence: Accommodating diverse user behaviors and technology preferences

Abstract

Objectives: High medication adherence is important for HIV suppression (antiretroviral therapy) and pre-exposure prophylaxis efficacy. We are developing sensor-based technologies to detect pill-taking gestures, trigger reminders, and generate adherence reports. Materials and Methods: We collected interview, observation, and questionnaire data from individuals with and at-risk for HIV (N = 17). We assessed their medication-taking practices and physical actions, and feedback on our initial design. Results: While participants displayed diverse medication taking practices and physical actions, most (67%) wanted to use the system to receive real-time and summative feedback, and most (69%) wanted to share data with their physicians. Participants preferred reminders via the wrist-worn device or mobile app, and summative feedback via mobile app or email. Discussion: Adoption of these systems is promising if designs accommodate diverse behaviors and preferences. Conclusion: Our findings may help improve the accuracy and adoption of the system by accounting for user behaviors, physical actions, and preferences.