Diabetes self-care management using mobile applications among medically underserved population

Abstract

Patients with type-2 diabetes can benefit from self-care behaviors that include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring health conditions periodically. Most patients fail to abide by this routine, thus resulting in serious health complications. This situation is more prevalent among medically underserved populations (MUP). MUPs, typically, are from low-income groups and often lack health insurance and access to medical care. Mobile technology is increasingly being used in chronic disease management. In this study, we use a mixed method research approach to investigate factors that influence the intention to adopt mobile technology for diabetes self-care management among MUPs. We extend the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with relevant constructs (e.g. illness representation and privacy concern) to contextualize the healthcare setting of MUPs. This study will contribute to our understanding of mobile technology adoption behavior of MUPs and help improve diabetes management among this patient population