JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Telehealth interventions have the potential to support preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) initiatives. Nevertheless, there is a lack of reviews to explore patient experiences and attitudes toward digital technology interventions.

Objective:

The study aims of the study was to explore patient experiences and attitudes toward digital health technology interventions in promoting PMTCT.

Methods:

The study used a systematic review and qualitative meta-aggregation adhered to the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Reviewer’s Manual. Electronic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, and Wiley were comprehensively searched. Eligibility criteria of this study are qualitative study focused on mothers living with HIV and their healthcare providers, exploring their experiences and attitudes toward digital health interventions for the PMTCT of HIV. We assessed the quality of the studies using the JBI Critical Appraisal tools for qualitative research and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for mixed methods studies. The study used meta-aggregation to synthesis of included qualitative studies.

Results:

The search yielded Eight included studies were analyzed. The study revealed four synthesized finding which included (1) positive acceptability of using health intervention for PMTCT, (2) patients' need education, (3) concerns about confidentiality, (4) personal, interpersonal, and healthcare barriers to adhering to care. Nine categories include good perceived-satisfaction, enhanced adherence, patient needs education, support systems, reminders, concerns about confidentiality, lack of family support, financial, and bad attitudes of provider.

Conclusions:

The study demonstrates that digital health interventions are well-received by HIV-positive pregnant women, but attention to confidentiality, family support, financial barriers, and provider attitudes is essential. These findings suggest that nurses and other healthcare professional can utilize mobile health interventions to enhance PMTCT outcomes through continuous education, support, and by addressing barriers to care.