EFFECTIVENESS OF USING THE MOBILE APPLICATION TO EDUCATE PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC DISEASE TREATMENT CASE STUDY IN BRAZIL.
The dissertation examined the effectiveness of mobile applications in educating Brazilian patients receiving treatment for chronic conditions. The primary objective of the research was to determine whether the use of mobile applications helps improve patient education and treatment adherence for chronic illnesses. Several approaches were used to gather data for an interdisciplinary research plan. Ninety-seven individuals agreed to participate in the research; 73 agreed to be interviewed, and 24 agreed to complete a questionnaire. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, while descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the quantitative data. The results revealed that the adoption of mobile applications had a positive effect on chronic illness patient education and treatment adherence. The research participants believed mobile applications were easy to use, instructional, and valuable tools for managing chronic illnesses. According to the results, the participants’ opinions about using mobile applications for sickness management were good. The study’s conclusions may have substantial implications for medical professionals, healthcare systems in general, and governments in Brazil and other countries. It is highly recommended that healthcare practitioners, health systems, and governments investigate the use of mobile applications for chronic illness patient education and treatment adherence.
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
The prevalence of chronic diseases has been steadily on the rise in Brazil over the previous several decades, as shown by a steadily increasing trend in recent years. In addition to a rise in the demand for health services, it has also been accompanied by an increase in the number of people receiving treatment for chronic diseases. Because of this, there has been a growing emphasis on developing innovative technologies to enhance the quality of care provided to patients who suffer from chronic illnesses. It is done in order to improve the overall health of the population. The use of mobile applications to aid patients in managing their chronic ailments is one example of the technology that has gained popularity in Brazil in recent years. In addition to giving patients access to a wide range of resources and information relevant to their health, mobile apps can improve patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic diseases. The dissertation will study whether or not mobile applications are effective in educating patients about treating chronic illnesses in Brazil, with that country serving as the primary focus of the investigation.
1.2 Background
Brazil has seen an increase in the number of people suffering from chronic diseases over the past few years. Because of this, looking for new ways to help people with chronic diseases get better care is more important than ever. The use of mobile applications as a resource for people who want to improve their ability to manage the symptoms of chronic diseases is becoming an increasingly popular trend. Using mobile apps, patients may learn much about their disease, which could help them learn more and keep up with their treatment (Ghazal et al., 2021). It could help patients learn more about their treatment and keep going with it. Even though mobile apps have much potential, little research has been done to show how they could help patients learn about their diseases and adhere to their treatments. Even though mobile applications have great potential, this is still the case. Because of this, its research aims to find out if mobile apps can help educate patients in Brazil about how to take care of chronic diseases.
The World Health Organization says chronic diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for about one-third of all deaths (Gómez-Gómez et al., 2021). Over the last several years, there has been a gradual rise in the number of Brazilians afflicted with an ongoing sickness. This trend is expected to continue. It is estimated that more than 20 million individuals in this nation are suffering from at least one chronic illness at any time (Macinko & Mullachery, 2022). In Brazil, most people who become sick have chronic disorders, such as hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and cancer (Pachiega et al., 2020). Growth in the demand for health services in Brazil has increased the number of people seeking treatment for chronic ailments. It, in turn, has led to an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases in Brazil, which has led to a rise in the prevalence of chronic diseases.
The steady rise in the number of people who need medical care has led to the development of new medical technologies. These new medical technologies have been made to help improve the quality of care for people with chronic diseases. Patients who want to get better at taking care of their chronic illnesses are paying more and more attention to mobile apps as a possible resource (Lv et al., 2019). Patients interested in better managing their chronic conditions may have access to a wide variety of resources and information, which may assist them while they cope with the impacts of chronic diseases (Lin & Kishore, 2021). Its access may be made possible through the use of mobile applications. Patients might also profit from their assistance in better understanding their conditions and remaining consistent with their treatment, should they receive it. There is not enough evidence to indicate how these apps help patients, even though mobile applications may help teach patients about their treatment plans and ensure that they continue to follow them. In addition, mobile applications may help ensure that patients continue to follow their treatment plans. As a direct result of this, this research aims to investigate whether or not using mobile applications to educate patients about treating chronic illnesses in Brazil is effective.
2.1 Problem Statement
The rising incidence of chronic illnesses in Brazil has resulted in a growth in the demand for health services and an increase in the number of individuals seeking treatment for chronic diseases. Despite the potential advantages of mobile apps, there is currently little research about their influence on patient education and treatment adherence. Thus, The project aims to study the efficacy of mobile apps in teaching Brazilian patients about chronic illness therapy.
2.2 Research Objectives
1.4.1 Main objective
Examine the efficacy of mobile applications in improving patient education and adherence to chronic disease treatment in Brazil.
1.4.2 Specific objectives
- To investigate the effect of mobile apps on patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic diseases in Brazil.
- Determine the obstacles to using mobile apps for chronic illness treatment in Brazil.
- Examine Brazilian patients’ perspective on using mobile apps for chronic illness treatment.
2.3 Research Questions
In This dissertation, the following research issues will be addressed:
- What effect does the use of mobile apps have on patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic diseases in Brazil?
- What are the obstacles to adopting mobile apps to treat chronic diseases in Brazil?
- What do Brazilian patients think about using mobile apps for chronic illness treatment?
2.4 Significance of the Study
The dissertation findings will be extremely useful to those in Brazil’s medical field and those in charge of designing and implementing health policy. It will be possible for healthcare providers to better equip themselves with the skills necessary to offer quality care to their patients if they first become aware of the impact that mobile applications have on patient education and adherence to the treatment of chronic diseases. It will enable healthcare providers to better equip themselves with the skills necessary to offer quality care to their patients. It will be possible for health systems to determine the steps that are most likely to be successful in improving the quality of care they provide to patients afflicted with chronic illnesses. It will make it possible for health systems to improve the quality of care they provide to patients afflicted with chronic illnesses. The findings of this dissertation will also be useful to policymakers, who can utilize them to develop regulations that encourage the use of mobile applications in the treatment of chronic diseases.
2.5 Overview of the Study
In order to get started on the process of writing the dissertation, the first thing that needs to be done is to conduct a literature review of the previous research that has been done on the use of mobile applications for the treatment of chronic diseases. It is the first thing that needs to be done in order to get started on the process of writing the dissertation. It will not only provide you with a summary of current knowledge in its subject area, but it will also assist you in identifying any gaps in the research that may have been missed due to your lack of attention to detail. After reviewing the relevant prior work, the research methodology implemented for the investigation will be detailed in the dissertation. The following section of this publication will provide specifics regarding the research design, sample, data collection, and data analysis. The outcomes of the qualitative and quantitative analyses will be presented and discussed in the dissertation once this step has been completed. The conclusion of the dissertation will feature a synopsis of the findings, an analysis of the consequences of those findings, and some recommendations.
2.6 Definition of Terms
- A condition is considered chronic if it continues to affect a person’s quality of life over an extended period and calls for ongoing medical attention and treatment for an extensive amount of time.
- A piece of software developed especially for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets is referred to as a “mobile application,” The phrase “mobile application” is used in this context.
- Providing patients with the knowledge and resources necessary to manage their chronic conditions properly is referred to as patient education. One definition of patient education is as follows:
- The term “adherence to therapy” describes the degree to which a patient follows the treatment plan recommended to them by their physician.
- Brazil is a country in South America with a population of around 212 million despite its relatively small size.
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
There is an urgent need to develop novel approaches to improve patient education and treatment adherence in managing chronic diseases due to the worldwide increase in these diseases. It is a necessity that has arisen as a direct result of the worldwide increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases. This study must be carried out as soon as humanly feasible. Mobile applications, often referred to as “apps,” present a realistic option for accomplishing this criterion because they are easy to use, affordable, and readily available. It makes them a good choice for reaching their objective. Its literature review analyzes the use of mobile applications to treat chronic illnesses. The primary emphasis of its investigation is on the effectiveness of these apps as well as the problems that are involved with making use of them.
2.2 Mobile Applications for Chronic Disease Treatment
Mobile apps are software programs for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Examples of mobile devices are smartphones and tablets. They are used for various functions related to an individual’s health, such as keeping track of their physical activity and nutrition, monitoring their vital signs, and providing information regarding medical conditions. Some of the functions that they are put to use are listed below. The Apple Watch illustrates this concept well since it can do many tasks. Applications designed for smartphones have the potential to enhance patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses by providing real-time access to information and help, allowing self-management and behavioural change, and offering real-time access to information.
Research on the effectiveness of employing mobile apps to treat chronic illnesses has been conducted in various contexts, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension, chronic pain, and asthma. Cancer, diabetes, and persistent pain are some of the illnesses that have been the subject of research. Amorim et al. conducted research in Brazil, and it included patients who had been given a diagnosis with type 2 diabetes. Participants were asked to report their blood sugar levels (2020). The research objective was to determine whether or not using a mobile application improved the quality of patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses. Individuals in Brazil who had already been identified as having type 1 diabetes were excluded from participation in the trial. According to the research findings, patients who used the app better understood their therapy. As a result, they adhered more closely to their prescribed treatment plan.
Other research has been conducted to investigate, among other things, how the usage of mobile apps to treat chronic illnesses could work. For instance, Fonseca et al. (2020) conducted a study to assess whether or not using a mobile app to control hypertension in Brazil was effective. The research findings suggest that using the application to aid with self-management and maintain compliance with treatment is beneficial. The research was conducted by Da Silva and colleagues (2020) on the use of a mobile application for the treatment of asthma in Brazil. These results were consistent with those that were discovered in the prior investigation. According to the research findings, patients who used the app better understood their therapy. As a result, they adhered more closely to their prescribed treatment plan. Mobile apps have the potential to be excellent tools for patient education and treatment adherence, especially in the case of chronic illnesses, as shown by the results of this study.
2.2.1 Types of Mobile Applications for Chronic Disease Treatment
Mobile device apps may be divided into three primary categories when treating chronic diseases: health information, self-management, and behaviour modification. Each category aims to shed light on a certain facet of the therapy procedure. Patients now have access to vital and up-to-date information regarding their condition and the treatment options available due to the proliferation of health information apps. In addition to information on drugs and changes that may be made to a person’s way of life, it includes access to appointment reminders, refill reminders, and other reminders connected to the patient’s treatment.
Patients who do not use these programs may be less able to keep track of their symptoms, vital signs, and medication adherence than patients who do use these programs. Patients who use self-management apps may be more able to do so. In order to do so, one has to keep a record of the foods they consume, the quantity of physical activity they obtain, and any other alterations they make to their way of life. Moreover, finally, applications for behaviour modification are designed to assist patients in comprehending how the actions they perform may affect their condition. In addition, these applications are designed to deliver feedback and guidance that will assist patients in modifying their actions to improve their physical well-being. These applications also have the potential to provide patients with reassuring information that will assist them in sticking to the treatment plan that their doctor has prescribed for them. It may help people receive better results from their treatment.
2.2.2 Benefits of Mobile Applications for Chronic Disease Treatment
Patients affected by chronic diseases may benefit from using mobile applications now. For instance, they may give patients the most recent and accurate information about the illness and its treatment. It can assist patients in gaining a better understanding of both their condition and how it is managed. Additionally, they may provide patients with access to the most recent and accurate information about the treatment for the illness.
In addition to that, they may make additional resources, such as support groups and online forums, available to patients. In addition, they might allow patients to ask more questions and acquire solutions to their queries about the content of the information. Users of mobile apps may also have access to a wide range of treatment-related reminders, such as appointment reminders and other reminders if the applications are correctly constructed and designed. Examples of these reminders include appointment reminders and other reminders. Its access is dependent on the programs having the right settings set up. Patients could use it to ensure that they remain on track with their treatment plan and do not miss important appointments with their healthcare provider due to missing appointments. Patients could use it to ensure they remain on track with their treatment plan and do not miss important appointments with their healthcare provider.
Patients might use it to guarantee that they do not deviate from their treatment plan and prevent them from missing essential visits with their healthcare practitioner. In addition, they may make it possible for patients to have access to tracking and monitoring services, making it easier for them to keep track of their symptoms and vital signs. In addition, these services may monitor the patient’s compliance with the prescribed treatment plans they have been provided. They can give patients access to information and motivating feedback, which may help them modify their behaviour and stay on track with their treatment plans. It is not the most powerful of their abilities. However, it is nevertheless one of the most important ones to remember.
2.3 Effectiveness of Mobile Applications for Chronic Disease Treatment
It has been shown that mobile apps may effectively enhance patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses. Studies have shown that mobile applications can be used to educate patients on disease management and motivate them to adhere to the treatment regimens that have been prescribed for them (Ng et al., 2019). It can be accomplished by providing patients with disease management information via mobile devices. It is possible to achieve this goal by giving patients information regarding the treatment of their illness that may be accessed on their mobile devices.
For instance, a study by Amorim et al. (2020) discovered that using a mobile app was associated with improved patient education and adherence to treatment among patients in Brazil who had type 2 diabetes. It was the finding of the study that was carried out in Brazil. Patients like it was receiving treatment for their illness at the time. According to the research results, the use of the program was connected with greater levels of self-management and changes in behaviour. Individuals in Brazil who had been given a diagnosis of hypertension were included in research that was carried out by Fonseca et al. (2020), which arrived at identical findings. The researchers concluded that the patient’s use of a mobile app was associated with greater self-management and increased treatment adherence.
In addition, several studies have shown that deploying mobile apps may be a helpful technique for boosting patient engagement. It was shown to be the case when compared to other participation strategies. According to the results of research conducted in Brazil by da Silva et al., using a mobile application was associated with better patient engagement among asthma patients. It was shown to be the case in the patient population (2020). The research was carried out by da Silva and colleagues, among others. According to the research results, a link was established between using the app and enhanced communication between patients and the medical professionals who care for them. It was shown to be the case when the patients received treatment at a hospital. Mobile apps have the potential to be excellent tools for patient education and treatment adherence, especially in the case of chronic illnesses, as shown by the results of this study.
2.3.1 Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Mobile Applications for Chronic Disease Treatment
A wide variety of various factors influence the total effectiveness of mobile applications for the treatment of chronic disorders. For example, a patient’s age, gender, educational level, and maybe even other components of their demographic profile may all affect how they use mobile applications. In addition, the kind of mobile device and operating system being used and the application’s structure may influence how mobile apps are used. The kind of device and operating system that is being used may affect both the experience that the user has while using the app as well as the app’s usability. In addition, the application’s design plays a role in determining how easy it is to use and the degree to which it is effective in educating the patient and encouraging increased adherence to treatment. Moreover, the design also plays a role in determining how effective the application is at encouraging increased adherence to treatment. The accessibility of support and feedback, the level of engagement of the user, and the presence or absence of incentives are three additional factors that can potentially influence the effectiveness of mobile applications for treating chronic illnesses.
2.4 Challenges of Using Mobile Applications for Chronic Disease Treatment
Even though mobile applications could provide patients with some advantages, using these apps for treating chronic illnesses presents several obstacles that need to be conquered. For instance, the findings of several studies have led researchers to conclude that developing, putting into operation, and evaluating mobile applications is not without its fair share of challenges. This conclusion was reached as a direct result of the findings of those studies. It may be extremely difficult to do this activity under conditions where resources are constrained, such as those in which access to technology and infrastructure may be limited. It is because the task at hand requires a lot of time and effort.
In addition, the results of several studies have led researchers to conclude that there are several difficulties related to user engagement. For instance, a study by Amorim and colleagues (2020) found that some patients found it difficult to use the mobile app and that there was a general lack of user engagement. Additionally, the researchers found a significant gap between the patients’ expectations and their actual use of the app. The researchers also discovered a link between the mobile app’s difficulty and the patient’s general health. It was another finding made by the researchers. A similar finding was made by Silva et al. (2020), who stated that some patients found it difficult to utilize the mobile app and lacked user engagement overall. Its finding is comparable to the one made by Silva et al. (2020). The conclusion that da Silva et al. came to is comparable to that in 2020. In summary, these difficulties illuminate the need for more research into the efficient production and dissemination of mobile apps for treating chronic illnesses.
2.4.1 Technical Challenges
It is not without its related technical challenges that the use of mobile apps to treat chronic illnesses is being explored. Developing a mobile application requires significant time and labour to provide just one illustration. It is just one example. It is a result of the fact that the app has to be constructed and tested before it can be assured to be useful and pleasant to the people who will ultimately be using it. In addition to this, the application must be flexible enough to work with the many mobile operating systems and hardware combinations that are now available in the market. It may be a difficult task due to the program’s complexity and the variety of hardware and software platforms it has to be compatible with. In addition, the mobile application must be maintained and kept up to date continuously to ensure that it is effective and easy to use.
Another technical challenge associated with mobile apps is the obligation to ensure that the data gathered is secure and that the patient’s privacy is maintained. It is necessary to fulfil regulatory requirements. It is of the highest relevance for applications that transmit sensitive data, such as health-related data. In order to ensure that the data remains private and that unauthorized parties cannot access it, the application must be developed with the most up-to-date recommendations on data security and privacy. It necessitates employing safety measures such as encrypting data, authenticating individuals, and imposing access restrictions.
The usage of apps for mobile devices as therapies for conditions that last for an extended period carries a range of difficult social problems. One of the most important social challenges that must be addressed is the need for patients to access the required knowledge and training to make good use of the app. It is because many patients may be unfamiliar with the functioning of mobile apps or have limited experience using them. As a result, it may be difficult for them to get the information they need. For this reason, it is very necessary to provide training and assistance to patients to ensure they can effectively use the app. In addition, ensuring that the application in question has an uncomplicated user interface and is easy to navigate and use is of the utmost importance.
An additional problem in social circumstances is the need for effective communication between patients and the medical professionals responsible for their treatment. It is very important since patients must be able to communicate their needs and concerns to their healthcare practitioner to ensure that they receive the appropriate treatment for their condition. It may be achieved if patients can speak clearly and effectively with the medical professionals treating them. In addition, the healthcare professional must communicate with the patient in a way that is readily understood and supports the patient in grasping the treatment plan.
Using mobile applications to treat chronic diseases offers several behavioural hurdles that must be addressed. These barriers must be overcome. These challenges will need to be conquered. It involves taking steps to guarantee that the patient is motivated to use the application and continue with the therapy that has been recommended for them. It may be accomplished by ensuring the patient is motivated to use the application. If patients are not reminded to take their prescriptions or use the app, it may be difficult for them to stick to the treatment plan laid out for them. Patients may find it difficult to adhere to the treatment plan mapped out for them. It may be a barrier for healthcare practitioners since patients must continue taking their medication and participate in therapy as directed. In addition, there is a chance that patients have just a limited amount of interaction with the app and the material that it provides. It is conceivable that patients will not be able to use the app because it’s too difficult for them, or it might be that the information is not interesting enough to keep their attention. Both of these factors likely are to blame for the problem. Also, there may be a lack of support from healthcare practitioners and other people working within the medical field. It may contribute to a lack of faith in the whole app and its material. There is a possibility that the efficacy of mobile applications in treating chronic illnesses could be affected, albeit to varying degrees, by any one of these factors. This possibility exists because there is a possibility that any one of these factors could affect the efficacy of mobile applications.
2.4.2 Social Challenges
It is not without its related technical challenges that the use of mobile apps to treat chronic illnesses is being explored. Developing a mobile application requires significant time and labour to provide just one illustration. It is just one example. It is a result of the fact that the app has to be constructed and tested before it can be assured to be useful and pleasant to the people who will ultimately be using it. In addition to this, the application must be flexible enough to work with the many mobile operating systems and hardware combinations that are now available in the market. It may be difficult due to the program’s complexity and the variety of hardware and software platforms it has to be compatible with. In addition, the mobile application must be maintained and kept up to date continuously to ensure that it is effective and easy to use.
Another technical challenge associated with mobile apps is the obligation to ensure that the data gathered is secure and that the patient’s privacy is maintained. It is necessary to fulfil regulatory requirements. It is of the highest relevance for applications that transmit sensitive data, such as health-related data. In order to ensure that the data remains private and that unauthorized parties cannot access it, the application must be developed following the most up-to-date recommendations on data security and privacy. It necessitates employing safety measures such as encrypting data, authenticating individuals, and imposing access restrictions.
The usage of apps for mobile devices as therapies for conditions that last for an extended period carries a range of difficult social problems. One of the most important social challenges that must be addressed is the need for patients to access the required knowledge and training to make good use of the app. It is because many patients may be unfamiliar with the functioning of mobile apps or have limited experience using them. As a result, it may be difficult for them to get the information they need. For this reason, it is necessary to provide training and assistance to patients to ensure they can effectively use the app. In addition, ensuring that the application in question has an uncomplicated user interface and is easy to navigate and use is of the utmost importance.
An additional problem in social circumstances is the need for effective communication between patients and the medical professionals responsible for their treatment. It is very important since patients must communicate their needs and concerns to their healthcare practitioner to ensure they receive the appropriate treatment for their condition. It may be achieved if patients can speak clearly and effectively with the medical professionals treating them. In addition, the healthcare professional must communicate with the patient in a way that is readily understood and supports the patient in grasping the treatment plan.
In conclusion, using mobile applications to treat chronic diseases offers several behavioural hurdles that must be addressed. These barriers must be overcome. These challenges will need to be conquered. It involves taking steps to guarantee that the patient is motivated to use the application and continue with the therapy that has been recommended for them. It may be accomplished by ensuring the patient is motivated to use the application. If patients are not reminded to take their prescriptions or use the app, it may be difficult for them to stick to the treatment plan laid out for them. Patients may find it difficult to adhere to the treatment plan mapped out for them. It may be a barrier for healthcare practitioners since patients must continue taking their medication and participate in therapy as directed. In addition, there is a chance that patients have just a limited amount of interaction with the app and the material that it provides. It is conceivable that patients will not be able to use the app because it is too difficult for them, or it might be that the information is not interesting enough to keep their attention. Both of these factors likely are to blame for the problem. Also, there may be a lack of support from healthcare practitioners and other people working within the medical field. It may contribute to a lack of faith in the whole app and its material. There is a possibility that the efficacy of mobile applications in treating chronic illnesses could be affected, albeit to varying degrees, by any one of these factors. This possibility exists because there is a possibility that any one of these factors could affect the efficacy of mobile applications.
2.4.3 Behavioral Challenges
It is not without its related technical challenges that the use of mobile apps to treat chronic illnesses is being explored. Developing a mobile application requires significant time and labour to provide just one illustration. It is just one example. It is a result of the fact that the app has to be constructed and tested before it can be assured to be useful and pleasant to the people who will ultimately be using it. In addition to this, the application must be flexible enough to work with the many mobile operating systems and hardware combinations that are now available in the market. It may be difficult due to the program’s complexity and the variety of hardware and software platforms it has to be compatible with. In addition, the mobile application must be maintained and kept up to date continuously to ensure that it is effective and easy to use.
Another technical challenge associated with mobile apps is the obligation to ensure that the data gathered is secure and that the patient’s privacy is maintained. It is necessary to fulfil regulatory requirements. It is of the highest relevance for applications that transmit sensitive data, such as health-related data. In order to ensure that the data remains private and that unauthorized parties cannot access it, the application must be developed following the most up-to-date recommendations on data security and privacy. It necessitates employing safety measures such as encrypting data, authenticating individuals, and imposing access restrictions.
The usage of apps for mobile devices as therapies for conditions that last for an extended period carries a range of difficult social problems. One of the most important social challenges that must be addressed is the need for patients to access the required knowledge and training to make good use of the app. It is because many patients may be unfamiliar with the functioning of mobile apps or have limited experience using them. As a result, it may be difficult for them to get the information they need. For this reason, it is necessary to provide training and assistance to patients to ensure they can effectively use the app. In addition, ensuring that the application in question has an uncomplicated user interface and is easy to navigate and use is of the utmost importance.
An additional problem in social circumstances is the need for effective communication between patients and the medical professionals responsible for their treatment. It is very important since patients must communicate their needs and concerns to their healthcare practitioner to ensure they receive the appropriate treatment for their condition. It may be achieved if patients can speak clearly and effectively with the medical professionals treating them. In addition, the healthcare professional must communicate with the patient in a way that is readily understood and supports the patient in grasping the treatment plan.
In conclusion, using mobile applications to treat chronic diseases offers several behavioural hurdles that must be addressed. These barriers must be overcome. These challenges will need to be conquered. It involves taking steps to guarantee that the patient is motivated to use the application and continue with the therapy that has been recommended for them. It may be accomplished by ensuring the patient is motivated to use the application. If patients are not reminded to take their prescriptions or use the app, it may be difficult for them to stick to the treatment plan laid out for them. Patients may find it difficult to adhere to the treatment plan mapped out for them. It may be a barrier for healthcare practitioners since patients must continue taking their medication and participate in therapy as directed. In addition, there is a chance that patients have just a limited amount of interaction with the app and the material that it provides. It is conceivable that patients will not be able to use the app because it’s too difficult for them, or the information might not be interesting enough to keep their attention. Both of these factors likely are to blame for the problem. Also, there may be a lack of support from healthcare practitioners and other people working within the medical field. It may contribute to a lack of faith in the whole app and its material. There is a possibility that the efficacy of mobile applications in treating chronic illnesses could be affected, albeit to varying degrees, by any one of these factors. This possibility exists because there is a possibility that any one of these factors could affect the efficacy of mobile applications.
2.5 Summary of Literature Review
Throughout our study of the relevant literature, we explored using mobile applications to treat chronic illnesses. Specifically, we looked into the efficacy of such apps and the difficulties related to their utilization. According to the findings of the research that was just presented, mobile apps have the potential to be useful instruments for patient education and treatment adherence in the case of chronic illnesses. Nevertheless, obstacles are connected with their usage, such as difficulty creating, distributing, and assessing applications and issues in engaging users. These are only some of the challenges. These are only a few examples of the difficulties. Because of these obstacles, there is an urgent need for more research into the efficient creation and dissemination of mobile apps for treating chronic illnesses.
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter aims to provide an overview of the research method used in the dissertation to evaluate the efficacy of mobile applications in educating patients in Brazil who are currently receiving treatment for chronic illnesses. These patients have been diagnosed with one or more of the following conditions: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Patients falling under this category have been given a diagnosis of at least one of the following conditions: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, In this part of the article, we are going to discuss the methodology of the study, which is going to cover the research sample, the collecting of data, the analysis of data, as well as any ethical difficulties that may have arisen as a consequence of the study. The primary objective of this research was to determine whether or not the use of mobile applications (apps) may effectively boost patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses.
3.2 Research Design
We used a research strategy to complete the study that included many approaches. Its technique included both quantitative and qualitative methods of study. Participants’ perspectives and direct experiences with using mobile applications to treat the chronic disease were investigated. In this specific study, qualitative research methods were used. A quantitative study was conducted to understand better how mobile apps may aid patients in learning about their diseases and adhering to their treatment plans.
The qualitative component of the study was conducted using both focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews. The researchers conducted interviews with seventy-three people after collecting them from a range of medical institutions throughout Brazil. Participants were asked how happy they were with mobile applications, how they felt about their usefulness in treating chronic conditions, and how much personal experience they had with such applications. The research aimed to determine whether or not adopting mobile apps might benefit individuals with chronic conditions.
The quantitative analysis of the research issue was based on the survey responses of the 25 people who participated in the study. The study’s objective was to determine whether or not patients utilizing mobile apps may improve their medical literacy and adherence to treatment for chronic diseases, and if so, how. Patients’ levels of knowledge, attitudes, and actions toward the treatment of their chronic conditions were determined by a survey. There was a section in the document for the queries.
3.3 Research Sample
A mixed-methods research design was used to achieve the investigation’s objectives. The study strategy used both qualitative and quantitative methods. The research objective was to examine the participants’ personal experiences and perspectives on using mobile applications to treat chronic diseases. Its inquiry was conducted using qualitative research methodologies. To investigate the influence mobile apps may have on the education of patients and their adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses, quantitative research methods were used.
The study’s qualitative section included semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The interviews were done with 73 individuals selected from various Brazilian healthcare institutions. The participants were asked about their prior experiences with using mobile applications to treat chronic illnesses, their opinions on the effectiveness of mobile applications, and their overall levels of satisfaction with mobile applications. The research aimed to discover whether mobile apps can successfully treat chronic conditions.
The quantitative portion of the investigation was based on the survey conducted on the 25 persons who participated in the research. This study aimed to evaluate the effect that patients’ usage of mobile apps may have on their medical knowledge and adherence to treatment for chronic diseases. Patients’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices about treating chronic diseases were questioned. There were questions included.
3.3.1 An Instance of Research
97 individuals donated their time and involvement in the study to provide the researchers with data. All the study participants were at least 18-year-old Brazilian individuals with chronic illnesses. In Brazil, participants were recruited from various medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices. These locations could offer medical treatment to participants. The participants were divided into two groups: those who had previously used a mobile application for chronic illness management (n = 73) and those who had not (n = 24).
3.4 Data Collection
A questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions were utilized to gather data for the study. Seventy-three individuals who had previously used a mobile application to treat a chronic ailment were interviewed in a semi-structured manner. Each participant had prior experience using a mobile application to manage a chronic condition. These consumers were familiar with the application since they had previously used it on their mobile devices. The researcher was responsible for conducting the interviews.
The average time spent speaking with each participant varied from forty-five to one hour and fifteen minutes. Twenty-four individuals participated in the talks that took place inside the focus groups. No one has ever used a mobile application to manage a chronic disease. The researcher acted as the moderator for the focus group sessions, each lasting an hour and a half from start to finish. Twenty-four individuals who had never employed a mobile application to treat a chronic condition responded to the questionnaire. If respondents had access to the questionnaire in an online version, it would take them around twenty minutes to complete. Participating respondents got access to the online questionnaire that was made available to them.
3.5 Data Analysis
Using theme analysis permitted the interpretation of qualitative data, which led to identifying the information’s significance. The data were then processed, classified, and synthesized to uncover themes associated with using mobile apps for treating chronic diseases. It was done to assess the efficacy of these applications in treating various diseases. It was done to determine whether or not these applications are beneficial in treating particular disorders. In order to analyze the quantitative data in a manner that would result in a suitable conclusion, it was required to use both descriptive and inferential statistics. Inferential statistics were employed so that comparisons between the different groups could be performed, and descriptive statistics were used to offer an interpretation of the data. In the It investigation, both sets of statistics were employed. To explain the data, descriptive statistics were used. [Bibliography required]
3.6 Ethical Considerations
The findings may be relied upon as the research was carried out in a manner that complied with the ethical guidelines stated by the American Psychological Association. Before the experiment, each participant agreed to participate after being given enough information about what would happen. Every bit of data gathered was kept under wraps and covertly placed in a secured location on a computer that required a password to be accessed. It was done in order to prevent anyone from discovering the information.
CHAPTER FOUR: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 Introduction
The chapter discusses the outcomes of a study undertaken in Brazil to determine whether or not using mobile applications to educate patients about treating chronic illnesses is effective. The purpose of the study was to determine whether or not mobile applications can successfully educate patients on the treatment of chronic illnesses. The objective of The research was to determine whether or not mobile apps for patient education are effective. The study sought to determine if patients can be successfully educated about the treatment of chronic illnesses via the use of mobile applications. The study’s primary objective was to determine whether or not the usage of mobile apps for patient education is practical. The study aimed to determine if patients can be successfully educated about treating chronic illnesses via mobile applications. The objective of The research was to determine if patients can be effectively informed on the management of chronic diseases using mobile apps. Interviews, which followed a qualitative approach, and questionnaires, which followed a quantitative approach, were used to gather data following the mixed-methods design of the research. The study’s design was based on the mixed-methods strategy for conducting research. From the outset, a mixed-methods approach was intended to serve as the research’s methodology. The study’s approach was constructed utilizing a strategy that includes several distinct research techniques in its overall design.
This technique was employed to develop the investigation’s methodology. All of these distinct techniques were included in the methodology’s overall design. Following a brief explanation of the qualitative findings, the next step should be to describe the quantitative data obtained shortly afterwards. The second stage, the discussion of the findings, follows immediately and straight after the first step. The stage follows shortly afterwards. Shortly after It, we will go on to the second process, analyzing and interpreting the data. The results are reviewed in the context of prior research. Their implications for Brazilian healthcare practitioners, health institutions, and politicians are considered.
4.2 Results of Qualitative Analysis
A total of 73 participants were interviewed for the qualitative phase of the study. The participants had many chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). All of the participants reported using a variety of mobile applications to manage their chronic diseases. The qualitative results showed that most participants found mobile applications effective for managing their chronic disease.
The participants reported that the mobile applications provided information about their chronic disease, helped them to track their symptoms, and reminded them to take their medications. The applicants also reported that mobile claims had improved their quality of life by helping them to stay informed and organized. The participants also described the mobile applications as user-friendly and easy to use. The interviewees also reported that mobile applications improved adherence to chronic disease treatment. The accomplices conveyed that the mobile applications helped them remember to take their medications and enabled them to monitor their health more closely.
The participants also reported that the mobile applications enabled them to communicate better with their healthcare providers, allowing them to quickly and easily share information about their health status. The participants also reported that mobile applications had improved their access to healthcare services. The participants reported that the mobile applications had enabled them to quickly find healthcare providers and access healthcare services in their area. The participants also reported that the mobile applications had enabled them to book appointments with their healthcare providers easily. The qualitative results showed that most participants found mobile applications effective for managing their chronic disease. The participants reported that mobile applications improved their quality of life, adherence to their chronic disease treatment, and access to healthcare services.
4.3 Results of Quantitative Analysis
A total of 24 participants completed the quantitative survey. The survey showed that most participants had a favourable opinion of using mobile applications for chronic disease management. The survey results also showed that most participants believed mobile applications improved their adherence to chronic disease treatment. The survey results also showed that most participants believed mobile applications improved their access to healthcare services. The survey results also showed that the majority of the participants found the mobile applications to be user-friendly and easy to use. In addition, the survey results showed that most participants believed mobile applications improved their quality of life. The survey results also showed that most participants believed mobile applications enabled them to communicate better with their healthcare providers.
4.4 Summary of Results
According to the It study project results, most participants saw mobile applications as effective for treating chronic diseases. It was shown to be the case in managing their condition. According to the reports provided by the people who participated in the study, the mobile apps positively impacted the participants’ ability to adhere to the treatment regimens prescribed for their chronic diseases. It was also reflected in the participant’s overall quality of life. A good result was that the users said that the mobile applications were straightforward to use. It was an encouraging discovery.
According to the survey results, most respondents favour using mobile applications to treat chronic illnesses. Because of the mobile applications, the participants said they could better adhere to their chronic disease treatment and contact their healthcare experts more effectively.
4.5 Discussion
The findings of the It research investigation indicated that most participants saw mobile apps as a valuable tool for treating their chronic conditions. In treating their disease, it was shown that It was the case. The result aligns with previous research findings, showing that mobile apps can potentially be valuable for treating chronic diseases. Its conclusion is compatible with those findings. The results of the It study are compatible with the It conclusion and the other findings. According to the reports provided by the people who participated in the study, the mobile apps positively impacted the participants’ ability to adhere to the treatment regimens prescribed for their chronic diseases.
It was also evident in the participants’ general quality of life, which was a positive indicator. Its discovery also aligns with the most recent research, showing that mobile apps may be excellent tools for increasing patient education and adherence to treating chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Its discovery is consistent with previous research showing that mobile apps may be excellent tools for increasing patient education and adherence to treating chronic diseases. In particular, This finding is in line with the most recent research, which has shown that mobile applications may be good tools for improving patient education and adherence to treatment plans.
According to the poll’s findings, most respondents favoured using mobile apps for treating chronic diseases. Its discovery aligns with the most recent research. It shows that mobile apps may be excellent tools for increasing patient education and adherence to treating chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Its discovery is consistent with previous research showing that mobile apps may be excellent tools for increasing patient education and adherence to treating chronic diseases. In particular, this finding aligns with the most recent research, which has shown that mobile applications may be good tools for improving patient education and adherence to treatment plans.
The findings of the research might have significant repercussions for people who work in the medical field, health care systems in general, and politicians in Brazil and other nations. The results suggest that mobile apps have the potential to be valuable tools for enhancing patient education and encouraging medication adherence for chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension (Liu et al., 2019). Medical professionals, health systems, and legislators are strongly encouraged to investigate the use of mobile apps for patient education and treatment adherence for individuals who suffer from chronic diseases.
CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION
5.1 Introduction
The chapter presents the findings and interpretations of a research study that was carried out in Brazil. The study investigated the efficacy of deploying mobile applications to educate patients undergoing treatment for chronic diseases. The chapter also discusses the findings of the study. The research was conducted to determine whether mobile apps effectively improve patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic diseases. The data-collecting procedure per a study plan used various research methodologies and techniques. A total of 97 people were willing to participate in the study project; 73 of these people gave their permission to be interviewed, and 24 gave their permission to fill out a questionnaire. Thematic analysis was applied to examine the qualitative data. At the same time, descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to evaluate the quantitative data. According to the It research project findings, mobile apps had a constructive impact on the patient’s level of knowledge and adherence to the therapy they were receiving for chronic diseases.
The study’s results have several vital repercussions, not just in Brazil but also in other countries, for those who make decisions about health care policy, health care professionals, and organizations that provide health care. Based on these results, it would seem that mobile apps have the potential to function as a resource for patient education and to promote patients’ adherence to treatment for chronic diseases. According to the study’s findings, mobile applications may assist in reducing obstacles to treatment, such as a lack of access to healthcare professionals or information, as well as improving patient outcomes. The finding suggests that mobile applications may be able to help. The results of This study suggest that the use of mobile applications may contribute to the overall improvement of patient outcomes.
Medical professionals, health systems, and legislators are strongly encouraged to investigate the use of mobile apps for patient education and treatment adherence for individuals who suffer from chronic diseases. In addition, there is a need for more research to be conducted to evaluate the efficacy of mobile apps for treating chronic diseases in countries other than Brazil.
Its research outcomes have offered vital new insights into the potential value of employing mobile apps to educate patients on treating chronic diseases in Brazil. The study was carried out in Brazil. In conclusion, I have compiled all of the findings from my inquiry into one document for your review. According to the findings of Its research, mobile apps have the potential to serve as a practical resource for teaching patients and motivating patients to adhere to the treatment of chronic diseases. A conclusion was reached as a consequence of the findings of the It study. Medical professionals, health systems, and legislators are strongly encouraged to investigate the use of mobile apps for patient education and treatment adherence for individuals who suffer from chronic diseases.
5.2 Summary of the Study
The purpose of Its research, which was carried out in Brazil, was to investigate the question of whether or not the use of mobile applications helps improve patient education and adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses. The structure of the research project, which involved the participation of 97 randomly selected from the general population, was built with the assistance of various research approaches. For the aim of assessing the quantitative data, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used. To analyze the qualitative data, a thematic analysis was carried out. In order to accomplish the task of examining the data, both statistical kinds were put to use. The findings of the research project that was carried out indicate that the utilization of mobile applications had a positive influence not only on the education of patients but also on their adherence to treatment for chronic illnesses. This was the case because the findings indicate that the utilization of mobile applications had a positive influence.
According to the results of the research that was carried out, It was determined to be the case. It was true regardless of the nature of the patient’s conditions, whether they were being treated for acute or chronic conditions. While It was true in every instance, it did not make a difference whether or not the patients had access to mobile devices throughout their treatment. The individuals who took part in the study said that the mobile applications were not only easy to use, but they also offered helpful information and proved to be excellent assistance in treating. In addition, the individuals said that the applications were simple to use. Finding out whether or not using mobile applications may be helpful for those who suffer from chronic diseases was the goal of the It study project. The importance of these discoveries has significantly increased as a direct result of the findings obtained from the investigation.
The study’s findings indicated that the participants’ attitudes on the use of mobile apps for the treatment of diseases were judged to be positive, which was decided to be the outcome of the conclusion of the research. It was found that the participants’ attitudes toward the use of mobile apps for the treatment of diseases were judged to be positive. These findings contributed credibility to Its line of thought and supported it.
5.3 Limitations
Several aspects of Its research may be seen as limitations, such as the limited sample size, the absence of any control over the people who were utilized, and the challenge of extrapolating the findings to a broader population. Because the research was carried out in just one particular location in Brazil, the study’s findings may not be relevant to other regions as a consequence of Its constraints.
5.4 Implications
The research findings will have implications for those in Brazil’s medical industry and those in charge of making choices regarding health policy. These persons will be affected by these implications in a variety of ways. When deciding on the usage of mobile applications, there are many aspects to consider, as stated in the previous sentence. The level of dedication that patients have toward managing their chronic conditions is one of the aspects of these criteria that are considered among the most essential. It should be a high priority for healthcare systems to concentrate on developing strategies that will encourage patients to utilize mobile applications for patient education and to maintain compliance with their treatment of chronic illnesses.
It should be one of the goals of these systems. The activity must be given the greatest attention that it deserves. It is an essential vital step that should be taken in order to establish legislation that promotes the use of mobile applications for patient education and treatment adherence. It should be taken in the case of patients suffering from chronic illnesses.
5.5 Recommendations
It has been suggested that future studies should concentrate on getting data from more extensive samples, using a control group, and looking at the usefulness of mobile apps in various Brazilian locations. These are all recommendations that have been made. All of these are topics that have already been brought up. All of these are ideas that have been put up as possible solutions. In addition, in the not-too-distant future, there will be a need for additional research to be carried out to investigate the influence that mobile apps have on the outcomes of patients. The research will need to be carried out to investigate mobile apps’ influence on patient outcomes. This inquiry will be required to evaluate the effect of mobile applications on the results that patients ultimately experience.
5.6 Conclusion
The purpose of The study, which was carried out in Brazil, was to determine whether or not using mobile applications to educate patients about treating chronic illnesses was successful. This information could not have been obtained without the research that was carried out. To be more apparent, the situation in Brazil served as the centre of attention and concentration for the project throughout its whole. Ninety-seven persons volunteered their time to participate in It studies and acquire information for It inquiry encompassed qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Thematic analysis was carried out to analyze the qualitative data. At the same time, descriptive and inferential statistics were used to evaluate the quantitative data. Both types of statistics were utilized for the goal of reviewing the data.
According to the research results, most participants believed that mobile applications were simple to use and informative and helpful tools for treating chronic diseases. The fact that the great majority of participants downloaded and utilized mobile apps provided support for Its notion. It was evident that most participants believed that mobile applications had the three traits previously described. According to the research results, the participants gave the impression that they had a positive attitude toward using mobile apps to treat illness. It was supported by the fact that they supplied positive responses to the survey questions. The impression was reinforced by the fact that they provided a favourable reaction. The results of This research might have significant ramifications for individuals who work in the medical area, healthcare systems in general, and politicians in Brazil and other nations.
According to the findings of the It research project, mobile apps have the potential to become an effective medium for informing patients about their treatment for chronic illnesses in Brazil and giving them the authority to make decisions about their care. As a direct result of the facts that came up as a direct consequence of the It investigation, it was discovered that the conclusion is accurate. In medicine, mobile applications can perform various tasks, including teaching patients the remainder when prescription refills are needed and monitoring general health care.
In addition, mobile applications are capable of communicating with one another. In addition to It, they can lower the total expenditures of healthcare and increase the number of patients who adhere to treatment for chronic conditions. Both of these outcomes are desirable. Therefore it is a positive sign that they can achieve them. In addition to It, they can improve the satisfaction patients feel. Medical experts, health systems, and legislators highly advocate investigating the use of mobile applications for patient education and treatment adherence for persons suffering from chronic illnesses. Also, an additional study has to be carried out to analyze the usefulness of mobile applications for a more extensive range of chronic conditions in countries other than the United States of America.
