Self-Monitoring Risk Factors for Diabetic Foot Ulceration With the Feetchecker App: Mixed Methods Study

Area of Science:

• Diabetology
• Digital Health
• Podiatry

Background:

• Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus.
• Effective DFU prevention strategies are crucial for healthcare systems.
• Mobile health (mHealth) tools can enhance self-care and awareness for individuals at risk of DFU.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the perceived usefulness, engagement, and user experience of the Feetchecker mHealth app.
• To assess the app's utility as a self-monitoring tool for individuals at risk of DFU.

Main Methods:

• A 3-month evaluation of the Feetchecker app with 24 patients at risk of DFU.
• Mixed methods approach combining app data, pre/post surveys, and interviews.
• Analysis included descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of app usage, engagement, and user experience.

Main Results:

• Patients reported positive experiences, viewing the Feetchecker app as valuable for monitoring foot health.
• Ease of use for self-checks and photo submission to podiatrists were key features.
• Engagement varied (continuous, frequent, low), influenced by factors like usability and digital skills.

Conclusions:

• The Feetchecker app facilitates DFU risk self-monitoring and timely healthcare contact.
• Positive user experiences and high engagement in many cases demonstrate mHealth app potential.
• Future work should enhance usability, engagement, and communication channels within the app.