Knowledge, Perception, and Use of Medical Applications Among Health Professions’ Students in a Nigerian University

Abstract

Background: Harnessing the potentials of applications (apps) for clinical training and practice has turned into the focal point of innovation. Objectives: The current study was aimed to determine knowledge, perception, and medical apps use among medical students of a Nigerian University. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 320 medical students (193 males and 127 females) are participated, with a response rate of 90.9%. The face and content validity was determined by a pilot test on obtained information about knowledge, perception, and use of medical applications, as well as socio-demographic characteristics. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Alpha level was set at P < 0.05. Results: The 12-months and point prevalence of smartphone ownership and using smartphone-based medical apps were 90% and 81.9%; and 65.9% and 50.9%, respectively. There was a high level of knowledge (81.9%), and positive perception (80%) about medical apps use. Knowledge of medical apps usage was significantly associated with each of age (χ2 = 30.541, P = 0.001) and academic levels (χ2 = 19.270, P = 0.001). A significant association was found between the perception of medical apps and age (χ2 = 13.554, P = 0.004). Also, there was a significant association between current use of medical apps and each of age (χ2 = 12.018, P = 0.007) and academic levels (χ2 =11.297, P = 0.002). Conclusions: Although smartphone ownership was high among Nigerian medical students, their usage of smartphone-based medical apps was moderate. Being of younger age and higher level of study are major contributors to a high level of knowledge and positive perception about medical apps use.