JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Stroke aftercare often leaves patients with unmet needs that can negatively affect their well-being and recovery. Providing right care at the right time and place is essential during the transition from hospital to home. The STROKE eCoach is a new mHealth self-management mobile application, designed to support this transition by offering personalized care through health information, symptom self-monitoring, and communication with healthcare providers.

Objective:

This study assessed the acceptability and usability of stroke aftercare with the STROKE eCoach from the perspectives of patients, informal caregivers, and healthcare providers.

Methods:

Using a mixed-methods approach: acceptability was assessed quantitatively through discontinuation rates, adherence rates, and a satisfaction questionnaire; usability was explored qualitatively based on four themes - technical functionality, ease of use, ability to meet patient needs, and enhancement of standard aftercare - discussed in focus groups and individual interviews.

Results:

Acceptability was assessed in 189 patients of whom n = 7 (3.7% ) discontinued app use due to the chosen technology. Adherence was high with 154 participants (82%) completing the recommended usage time. Satisfaction was moderate. Regarding usability, patients (n = 9), informal caregivers (n = 3), and healthcare providers (n = 5) participated. Four key themes emerged: patient-centred care, health information, care coordination and support, practical and technical considerations.

Conclusions:

The STROKE eCoach was generally well-accepted by a large group of patients, usability findings provided ideas for future improvements. Next steps involve exploring the (cost-)effectiveness of the STROKE eCoach and the role of informal caregivers in the aftercare process.