Implementation and Adherence of a Custom Mobile Application for Anonymous Bidirectional Communication Among Nearly...

Area of Science:

• Clinical Research
• Digital Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The longitudinal RisCoin study examined COVID-19 vaccination failure risk factors in healthcare workers (HCWs) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.
• A custom mobile application was implemented for secure data collection and communication within the study cohort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation, adherence, benefits, and limitations of the study's mobile application.
• To assess the app's utility in managing a clinical research cohort and collecting longitudinal data.

Main Methods:

• A custom mobile app facilitated secure data collection, result dissemination, and communication.
• Participant app usage (downloads, logins, submissions) was tracked from October 2021 to December 2022.
• Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with app adherence.

Main Results:

• 91% of participants used the app, with 28% identified as adherent users (≥12 submissions).
• App adherence increased with age and was associated with specific HCW roles, influenza vaccination, and non-smoking status.
• IBD patients with SARS-CoV-2 exposure and those reporting vaccine adverse events showed higher adherence.

Conclusions:

• The app provided a secure platform for cohort management and longitudinal data collection, enhancing participant engagement.
• App usability, technical challenges, and participant characteristics are critical for optimizing adherence in clinical research.