JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Despite the global expansion of HIV self-testing (HIVST), many research studies still rely on self-reported outcomes. New HIVST verification methods are needed, especially in resource-limited settings.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the user experience of a mobile health (m-health) application (app) to enhance HIVST results reporting and verification.

Methods:

Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were used to evaluate the user experience of the 4YBY m-health photo-verification app for HIVST. We used a think-aloud approach and participants did usability tasks and completed a qualitative exit interview. The app included HIV educational resources, step-by-step video instructions for performing HIVST, a 20-minute timer, a guide on interpreting results with linkage to care, an offline version, and a photo-verification system. Demographic characteristics were reported by descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Nineteen users (12 females, 7 males) participated with a mean age of 22 years. The users completed the usability tasks and successfully uploaded a photo of their test result using the app without assistance. Four main themes were identified in the data. First, participants noted the user-friendly features of offline version and the low data usage enabled use of the app. Second, participants remarked that the app’s self-explanatory nature and instructions guiding how to use the app, enhanced use. Third, many users reinforced the importance of privacy setings and tools to protect confidentiality among users. Finally, users noted that the app’s “linkage to care” features were useful particularly as related to referrals to trained counselors upon completion of the test. All the participants noted that the app provided a convenient and private means of verifying HIV test results.

Conclusions:

Findings demonstrated the importance of engaging end-users at the development phase of health technology innovations serving youth. Clinical trials are needed to determine the efficacy of using a mobile health app to verify HIVST results among young people.