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Perceived barriers and facilitators to app use in Australian audiology clinics
Rebecca J Bennett1,2,3, Melanie A Ferguson1, Jessica Tsiolkas2
1Curtin School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
Objective:
Audiology-specific mobile apps enhance hearing healthcare by supporting self-management of ear and hearing conditions and their associated secondary impacts. However, app adoption by hearing care professionals (HCPs) and adults accessing hearing services remains inconsistent. Understanding the perceived barriers and facilitators influencing app use is critical for clinical integration.
Design:
A cross-sectional survey exploring attitudes towards app use and factors influencing HCP recommendation of apps to adult clients. Survey development was informed by implementation science frameworks, including the Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) and determinants of digital engagement.
Study Sample:
Australian HCPs and adults accessing hearing services (aged 40-70 years).
Results:
A total of 824 adults accessing hearing services and 191 HCPs participated. Almost all (97.5%) adults accessing hearing services owned a smartphone and 46.3% used mobile health (mHealth) apps. HCPs cited digital literacy, dexterity, and cognition as perceived barriers to app adoption, while adults accessing hearing services were more concerned about privacy, security, and cost.
Conclusions:
Improving HCP's awareness of available apps, confidence in assessing client digital literacy, and skills in addressing privacy, security, and cost concerns could support the integration of digital solutions in audiology, ensuring equitable access and benefit for all clients, regardless of age, ability, or socioeconomic status.
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