Examining Challenges to Incorporate End Users in the Development of Digital Health Interventions: Protocol for a Systematic Review (Preprint)
BACKGROUND Digital Health Interventions (DHIs) are rapidly evolving the landscape of healthcare. Multiple studies have shown their propensity to extend both the quality and reach of interventions. However, failure to improve DHI development is linked to failed uptake and health outcomes. This dilemma is further conflicted by the colliding backdrops of the digital and health industries respectively, which approach, understand and involve end users differently in the framing of a DHI. OBJECTIVE The objective of this systematic review is to assess the challenges to incorporate end users in the development of digital health interventions, to identify emerging hybridised solutions, and to identify limitations and gaps for areas of future investigation. METHODS The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-P) will be used to structure this protocol. A systematic search of the PsycInfo, PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, CINAHL and IEEE Xplore databases will be conducted. Additionally, the PerSPEcTiF guidelines for complex interventions will be consulted. Two reviewers will independently screen the titles and abstracts of the identified references and select studies according to the eligibility criteria. Any discrepancies will then be discussed and resolved. Two reviewers will independently extract and validate data from the included studies into a standardised form and conduct quality appraisal. RESULTS As of February 2020, we have completed a preliminary literature search examining challenges to incorporate end users in the development of DHI. Systematic searches, data extraction and analysis, and writing of the systematic review are expected to be completed by August 2021. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review aims to provide an effective summary of challenges to incorporate end users in the development of DHIs. Results from this review will provide an evidence base for a more harmonised approach to end users that satisfies the needs of healthcare outcomes and digital design and development respectively.