PrE(P)Conception: creating and implementing a smartphone application for serodiscordant couples to support an HIV-free future

Purpose of Project: There is no smartphone application for People Living with HIV (PLWH) during the preconception period to improve outcomes and reduce perinatal transmission. Beta-testing the Pre(P)Conception application is the first step in development of a smartphone application to improve self-management and improve outcomes for PLWH in the preconception period. Methodology: The researcher created a bare bones structure of the application called a wireframe used for beta-testing applications prior to development. This wireframe consisted of features suggested to improve outcomes for PLWH and people in the preconception period such as push notifications, medication log, calendar, and patient portal. The Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale (Health-ITUES) was administered to participants (n=13) and responses determined the perceived usefulness and ease of use of the Pre(P)Conception application. Results: Single (92%) African American (100%) females (77%), ages of 31-49 (54%) were the majority of the sample. The mean score on the Health-ITUES was 4.42, suggesting that participants would likely use the application after development and found the application useful and easy to use during preconception. Participants suggested improvements to the Pre(P)Conception application including a more colorful interface and passcode protection. Participants liked the guidelines link that are suggested to improve self-management through patient self-education. Implications for Practice: The PrE(P)Conception application has an economic benefit to patients and the healthcare system. Alternatives include costly reproductive interventions out of pocket to the patient or possible transmission to newborn costing approximately $418,000 to the healthcare system throughout the lifetime. PrE(P)Conception can be used to achieve the 90-90-90 WHO initiative to end the HIV epidemic. The patient portal can be used by providers to access patient updates and questions remotely prior to visits and improve practice.DNPIncludes bibliographical reference