Attitudes and opinions of HIV/AIDS people about the use of mobile App in HIV self-management

ABSTRACT

Aim: Evaluation of the attitudes and opinions of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) regarding HIV management through a mobile-based self-management application.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on PLWHA aged ≥ 18 years who are monitored at the Gregorio Clinic of the Larnaca General Hospital, the only monitoring center for people with HIV/AIDS in Cyprus. A self-administered questionnaire was used, consisting of demographic characteristics, and questions regarding attitudes of PLWHA, as well as an open-ended question to express their suggestions about the design of the mobile application. We used convenience sampling (n =200) and the study was conducted between July 15, 2020, and January 15, 2021.

Results: 89% had a smartphone (70.7% with Android OS) while 90.5% agreed to use a mobile application with which they would have appointment reminders (92%), CD4/V/L results (88%), reminders to take the next medicine (79%), nutrition advice (e.g., for patients with diabetes, high cholesterol, etc.) (79%), sending messages to medical staff with real-time communication (79%), personal passwords (78%), daily medication reminders (60%).

Conclusions: The creation and use of a self-management application on the mobile phone is an innovative program for the Gregorio clinic that most participants embraced. The proposals cover the needs and expectations of the users of the information system to be created.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS, attitudes, opinions, self-management, mhealth