E-Posters-10184

10184_Sudol

Pdf Summary

This study examines mobile health applications (apps) for patients with pelvic floor disorders (PFDs). The researchers evaluated the accuracy and utility of these apps using the APPLICATIONS Scoring System. They developed a list of search terms related to PFDs and identified relevant apps in the Apple iTunes Store. Only 9.6% of the search terms produced eligible apps for evaluation, and out of those, only 25.6% were accurate and subsequently scored. The study found that patients are more likely to obtain irrelevant and inaccurate information even when using the appropriate search term. <br /><br />The researchers identified 23 eligible apps for scoring. These apps focused on education, such as explaining pelvic floor exercises and providing information on diagnoses and treatments for urinary incontinence. Some apps also addressed special populations, including patients using intermittent catheterization and transgender patients. A few apps included optional links to connect with social media.<br /><br />The APPLICATIONS Scoring System, modified for female pelvic health apps, consisted of various components such as comprehensiveness, price, connectivity, and navigation ease. The highest scoring apps were "Squeezy," "LeakFreeMe," and "Stop UTI." These apps provided comprehensive information, had user-friendly features, and received a rating of 14 out of 17.<br /><br />The study concludes that health care providers can feel confident in recommending the 23 scored apps to patients after excluding inaccurate apps. Further studies should assess patient experience with the scored apps, and patient and provider feedback can help identify deficits in currently available apps and guide the development of new apps for enhanced patient-centered care.

Keywords

mobile health applications

pelvic floor disorders

APPLICATIONS Scoring System

urinary incontinence

special populations

comprehensiveness

connectivity

Squeezy

LeakFreeMe

Stop UTI