Take Charge, Get Cured: The development and user testing of a culturally targeted mHealth decision tool on HCV treatment initiation for methadone patients.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes the development of a mobile health tool to facilitate Hepatitis C (HCV) treatment decision making in methadone patients.

METHODS

Using an iterative, formative evaluation framework, we used commercial marketing techniques to create 3D maps of survey data to develop culturally relevant messaging that was concept tested. The resulting tool was then user tested and results were used to modify the tool.

RESULTS

The "Take Charge, Get Cured" tool was developed with surveys (n = 100), perceptual mapping analysis, concept testing (n = 5), and user testing (n = 10). "Think aloud" sessions were audio recorded and surveys given. Patients thought the goal of the tool was to encourage treatment and it was aimed to the needs of methadone patients. Means of 6.7-7 (on a 7 point scale) were observed for survey items related to ease of use, content, and satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

The iterative development was essential to ensuring a culturally targeted tool, specific to the needs of HCV + methadone patients. There was a high level of acceptance for the tool.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Our study indicates that using a formative evaluation strategy is essential for development of highly targeted patient communication, especially in hard-to-reach populations.