JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Limited evidence exists in Africa on the design and development of m-Health applications (apps) to guide best practice and ensure effectiveness. As part of a pragmatic trial for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) roll out among key populations in Tanzania, we present results of the development of the app (Jichunge) intended to promote adherence to PrEP among men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSW) in Tanzania.

Objective:

To present the development process of a mobile health app (Jichunge app) for PrEP adherence among men who have sex with men and female sex workers in Tanzania

Methods:

A participatory design approach was employed and guided by the information system research frameworks. MSM and FSW were the target populations that were involved in both the relevance and design cycles of the app development

Results:

The relevance cycle described the existing problem, provided the compatible app features for the target population, and the need to develop an m-Health app that provides health services in a non-stigmatising and discriminating environment. User involvement in the design and evaluation of the app provided an opportunity to incorporate social, cultural, and community-specific features that ensured usability. Text message services, offline medication registration and improvement in discussion platforms were suggested and incorporated

Conclusions:

The participatory design approach in the development of m-Health apps is useful in the identification and validation of population-specific functional features and has the potential to improve usability and as such, ensure future health impact. The Jichunge app, through this participatory process, has taken end-user needs into account, eliciting enthusiasm regarding its’ potential role in supporting PrEP adherence for HIV and related behavioural change promotion. Clinical Trial: PACTR202003823226570