Usability Evaluation of a Mobile-based Self-management Application from the Perspective of People Living with HIV

Background: People living with HIV (PLWH) are faced with a chronic condition that requires management and awareness of their situation. Mobile-based applications (apps) have the potential to support self-management and provide educational information for PLWH. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the usability of a mobile-based self-management app from the perspective of PLWH. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional one that conducted to determine the usability of a mobile-based self-management app for PLWH. The statistical population was all PLWH in the Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) center of Imam Khomeini Hospital in 2018 (N = 65). We asked the end-users to use the mobile-based self-management app for 30 days. User feedback was collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. The collected data from the statistical population were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: According to the findings, most features of the mobile-based self-management app from the perspective of PLWH were in "very high" level. Moreover, we finalized the design process, which included the functional features and user interface screens of a mobile-based self-management app for PLWH to manage their chronic condition. The functional features which were finalized at the end of usability evolution included: HIV/AIDS INFO, Antiretroviral therapy, Medication adherence, and Reminders. Conclusion: Despite the widespread use of mobile-based apps, usability evaluation can help further develop these applications in the HIV-care. However, further study is needed to assess the impact of the mobile-based app on adherence to medication for PLWH and facilitate their communication with healthcare providers