MedTracks App and Medication Adherence

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    System Usability of the MedTracks App to aid to Medication Adherence (SBRI)

  • IRAS ID

    347639

  • Contact name

    Andrew Gibson

  • Contact email

    andrew.gibson5@nhs.scot

  • Sponsor organisation

    NHS Highland

  • Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier

    NA, NA

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    0 years, 5 months, 31 days

  • Research summary

    Digital solutions to act as an aide memoire for taking medication are becoming increasingly available yet little is known about the actual efficacy of the technology. The MedTracks mobile phone application (app) combines a music-based notification platform to provide reminders to take medication whilst providing performance reporting. The app uses a music-based push notification irrespective of whether the app is open or not using memorable music from the users’ formative years. Using music in this way can engage multiple areas of the brain creating positive responses which in turn encourage action. Personalisation features within the app such as using associated images can enhance engagement and encourage continued use.

    The app is designed to benefit both patients and healthcare providers by improving health outcomes, lowering medication wastage and reducing escalation of treatment. By targeting a wide range of end-users, including those with chronic conditions, the project aims to have a significant impact on medication adherence.

    This project aims to examine whether the MedTracks app is useful and easy to use for a cohort of adults taking two or more oral medications. It will also aim to indicate if use of the app changes attitudes and improves self-reported medication adherence. Qualitative interviews will be conducted with a sub-set of participants to examine issues in greater depth.

  • REC name

    Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/YH/0210

  • Date of REC Opinion

    11 Sep 2024

  • REC opinion

    Favourable Opinion