Peer Reviewed Study

Acceptability and Feasibility of a Mobile Health Application for Video Directly Observed Therapy of Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorders in an Office-based Setting

July 14, 2020
National Library of Medicine
Godersky ME, Klein JW, Merrill JO, Blalock KL, Saxon AJ, Samet JH, Tsui JI
Video DOT
SDOH/Health Equity
Value-Based Care
Quality Measures
Lowering Costs
Remote Therapeutic/Physiological Monitoring
Health Tech Innovations/Digital Healthcare
Health Policy
Member Engagement & Satisfaction
Improving Plan Offerings
Growing Members
Retaining Members
The Guide to Managing Medication Adherence to Improve Outcomes and Quality Metrics

Abstract

Introduction/background: Video directly observed therapy (video-DOT) through a mobile health platform may improve buprenorphine adherence and decrease diversion. This pilot study tested the acceptability and feasibility of using this technology among patients receiving buprenorphine in an office-based setting.

Methods: Participants were instructed to record videos of themselves taking buprenorphine. Data were collected from weekly in-person visits over a 4-week period; assessments included self-report of medication adherence, substance use, satisfaction with treatment and use of the application, and also urine drug testing. Open-ended questions at the final visit solicited feedback on patients' experiences using the mobile health application.

Results: The sample consisted of 14 patients; a majority were male (86%) and White (79%). All participants except 1 (93%) were able to use the application successfully to upload videos. Among those who successfully used the application, the percentage of daily videos uploaded per participant ranged from 18% to 96%; on average, daily videos were submitted by participants 72% of the time. Most participants (10/14; 71%) reported being "very satisfied" with the application; of the remaining 4 participants, 2 were "satisfied" and 2 were "neutral." Participants reported liking the accountability and structure of the application provided and its ease of use. Negative feedback included minor discomfort at viewing one's self during recording and the time required.

Conclusions: Based on these results, use of a mobile health application for video-DOT of buprenorphine appears feasible and acceptable for patients who are treated in an office-based setting. Further research is needed to test whether use of such an application can improve treatment delivery and health outcomes.

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