An mHealth App to Promote Diabetes Self-care Behavior among Medically Underserved Population

Diabetes is a chronic illness that causes serious health complications such as kidney failure, limb amputations, and often leads to premature death. Adoption of self-care behavior among diabetes patients is known to improve their health conditions and quality of life. Medically underserved populations (MUP) are disproportionately affected by diabetes. In this research we use a design science approach to develop an mHealth app to promote diabetes self-care behavior among MUPs. Using design theories on behavior change and user-centered design we articulated five key design principles. A mobile app based on these principles and AADE7 self-care behavior framework has been implemented using an Android system. We are currently in the process of evaluating its effectiveness. Our research contributes to the discourse on design for behavior change and illustrates the effectiveness of mHealth apps in promoting healthy lifestyles.