Challenges of implementing an mhealth application for personalized physical activity counselling in primary health care: A qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: A mobile health (mHealth) technology has the potential to facilitate personalized physical activity (PA) counselling. We aimed to explore the feasibility and challenges of implementing a newly developed mHealth application (PAC app) for personalized PA counselling. Material and Methods: A qualitative design employed a descriptive phenomenology approach. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) with primary health care (PHC) providers and were analyzed using a deductive thematic approach. Results: A total of 16 participants participated in four FGDs. Four major themes were found: application for personalized PA counselling, barriers to the use of the application by providers, patient involvement, and impact on PHC services. Discussion: The results showed that the new mHealth application can potentially facilitate PA counselling. However, its use in PHC settings requires an understanding of the context of service delivery; the challenges faced by providers and patients and effects on services must be considered. Conclusion: Future research should focus on the long-term use of PAC app and its impact on behavioral and health outcomes.