JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

eHealth has the potential to improve health outcomes. However, this potential is largely untapped. Individuals face an overload of apps and have difficulties choosing suitable apps for themselves. In the FitKnip experiment, individuals were given access to a health app platform, where they could purchase reliable preselected health apps with a personal budget of 100 euros.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to scientifically evaluate the health app platform as an innovative way to improve population health on concept, feasibility, acceptability, perceived impact on health, and health empowerment.

Methods:

This study included seven focus group interviews with end-users and one with stakeholders. All focus groups were semi-structured using interview guides. The analyses were conducted according to the principles of the Framework Method. Identified themes were concept, acceptability, health empowerment and outcomes, and future implementation.

Results:

Both end-users and stakeholders were enthusiastic about the concept of a health app platform. End-users indicated missing apps regarding physical health and lifestyle and needing more guidance towards suitable apps. End-users and stakeholders identified potential providers of FitKnip. Stakeholders suggested a trusted National quality mark to show FitKnip and the provided apps are safe.

Conclusions:

This study showed the need for a personalized and flexible platform. Next to this, a deeper understanding of the roles of stakeholders in such initiatives is needed especially on financing and reimbursement of health promotion and digital health services. A health app platform is a promising innovative initiative to enhance public health. Clinical Trial: The FitKnip study was declared to not fall within the scope of the Dutch Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act by the medical ethics committee of Leiden, Den Haag, Delft (N19.0878).