Paediatric use of medications and adherence apps: a qualitative analysis of the perspectives of children and parents

Background: The number of children diagnosed with chronic medical conditions is increasing, with a high percentage struggling with medication adherence. Non-adherence in children may lead to negative health outcomes. Parents are typically responsible for managing their child's medications. Medication adherence mobile apps are an innovative approach to address non-adherence and actively engage children. Aim: This study explored children's and parents’ perceptions of using medication adherence apps to facilitate self-management. Methods: Children (aged 7–17 years) taking one or more medications for a chronic condition and their parents were recruited from an outpatient pharmacy and adolescent clinic. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 8 children and 10 parents. An app interaction (guided and independent), followed by a brief questionnaire with the child was also administered. Interviews and interactions were audio recorded, transcribed and reviewed for accuracy. The technology acceptance model guided data collection and analysis. Prevalent codes were identified and thematic analysis was conducted. Results: Most children were 12–17 years of age and most parents were 30–49 years of age. Parents and children received adherence apps as an innovative approach to the child's medication management. Nine themes emerged: ability to earn rewards for adherence; having security functionality to protect user information; customisable graphics and appealing colour schemes; medication-specific information; ease of accessibility to mobile devices; sharing child-friendly medication information; children's limited knowledge and involvement in medication management; and communication challenges with healthcare providers. Conclusions: Adherence apps incorporating user-centred needs of children and educating them about chronic diseases and medication use may positively affect self-care.