User Experience of a Web-Based Mobile Health App Supporting Low-Income Pregnant Individuals With Diabetes: Mixed...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• mHealth Applications
• Diabetes Management

Background:

• Diabetes management during pregnancy requires significant patient engagement and support.
• Mobile health (mHealth) tools can enhance patient education and health promotion.
• The SweetMama app was developed to support low-income pregnant individuals with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the user experiences of low-income pregnant individuals using the SweetMama mHealth app.
• To evaluate the feasibility and usability of SweetMama in a diverse population.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
• Participants were randomized to use the SweetMama app or receive usual care.
• Usability was assessed using standardized surveys (SUS, USE, MAUQ) and qualitative interviews.

Main Results:

• The SweetMama app demonstrated favorable usability, with high scores across SUS, USE, and MAUQ.
• Participants found the app easy to learn, navigate, and motivating, citing clear design and timely reminders.
• Qualitative feedback highlighted the value of motivational elements and content specificity, with suggestions for customization.

Conclusions:

• The SweetMama app is a user-friendly, visually appealing, informative, and motivating tool for low-income pregnant individuals with diabetes.
• The app effectively reduces barriers to care and supports diabetes self-care.
• Constructive feedback was gathered to improve the app for future clinical effectiveness trials.