Acceptability of Delivering and Accessing Health Information Through Mobile Phone Technology Among Community Health Advisors

Theoretical Background and research questions/hypothesis:  The rapid development of communication technologies can play a significant role in decreasing communication inequalities and cancer disparities by promoting cancer control and enhancing population and individual health. Studies have shown that technology, such as the mobile phone short message service (SMS) or text messaging, can be an effective health communication strategy that influences individuals’ health-related decisions, behaviors, and outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the acceptability of mobile technology for delivery and access of health information among Deep South Network for Cancer Control trained Community Health Advisors as Research Partners (CHARPs). 

Methods:  A mixed-method design was used, and a triangulation protocol was followed to combine quantitative and qualitative data. Focus groups stratified by age (4 focus groups; n=37) and self-administered surveys (n=77) were conducted to determine CHARPs mobile phone and text message usage and identify barriers and facilitators to a mobile phone intervention. 

Results:  All participants were African American, 90% were women, and the mean age was 54 (focus groups) and 60 (survey). Nearly all (92%) of focus group participants reported owning a mobile phone. Of those, 23% owned a Smartphone, 65% had a text messaging plan, and 53% received text messages several times a week or day. Similar responses were seen among the survey participants, with nearly 95% reporting owning a mobile phone, and of those, 28% owned a Smartphone, 54% had a text-messaging plan, and 51% received text messages several times a week or day. The benefits of a text messaging system mentioned by focus group participants included alternative form of communication, quick method for disseminating information, and privacy of communication. The main barriers reported by both groups to using mobile technology to receive health information were cost and not knowing how to text message. Ways to overcome barriers were explored with focus group participants, and education was the most proposed solution. Majority of CHARPs were in favor of receiving a weekly text message that provides cancer/health information.

Conclusions:  The findings from this study indicate that CHARPs are receptive to receiving text messages focusing on cancer/health information and would be likely to engage in mobile health research. These findings represent the first step in the development of an interactive mobile health program designed to provide cancer/health information and a support network for the DSN CHARPs.

Implications for research and/or practice:  Health disparities exist not only in health care but also in the ability of different population groups to access and use health information. In order to reach population subgroups with important health information, it is necessary to use the channels through which they seek such information.