Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: Apr 18, 2023
Date Accepted: Aug 2, 2023
Warning: This is an author submission that is not peer-reviewed or edited. Preprints - unless they show as "accepted" - should not be relied on to guide clinical practice or health-related behavior and should not be reported in news media as established information.
Investigating individual’s preference in determining the functions of smartphone application in fighting pandemic: a best-worst scaling study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Smartphone applications (apps) have been beneficial in controlling and preventing the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a gap in research surrounding the importance of smartphone app functions from a user's perspective.
Objective:
This study aimed to assess the importance of a virtual smartphone app's functions for managing health during a pandemic based on user preferences.
Methods:
A cross-sectional and web-based survey using the best-worst scaling method was used to investigate the general population's preference towards the importance of smartphone app functions. The attributes of the BWS questionnaire were developed based on a robust process, including literature review, interviews, and expert discussion. Count analysis, conditional, and mixed logit analysis were used to estimate preference heterogeneity among respondents.
Results:
The responses of 2,153 participants were eligible for analysis. The three most vital functions, according to their selection, are "surveillance and monitoring of infected cases," "quick self-screening," and "early detection of infected cases." The mixed logit regression model identified significant heterogeneity in preferences among respondents, and stratified analysis showed that some heterogeneities varied in respondents by demographics and COVID-related characteristics.
Conclusions:
This study ranks the importance of smartphone app features that provide healthcare services during the pandemic, based on the general population's preferences in China. It provides empirical evidence for decision-makers to develop eHealth policies and strategies that address future public health crises from a person-centered care perspective. Continued use of apps and smart investment in digital health can help improve health outcomes and reduce the burden of disease on individuals and communities.
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