A Library of Analytic Indicators to Evaluate Effective Engagement with Consumer mHealth Apps for Chronic Conditions: Scoping Review
Open accessPublished version of a preprint
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There is mixed evidence to support current ambitions for mobile health (mHealth) apps to improve chronic health and well-being. One proposed explanation for this variable effect is that users do not engage with apps as intended. The application of analytics, defined as the use of data to generate new insights, is an emerging approach to study and interpret engagement with mHealth interventions. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to consolidate how analytic indicators of engagement have previously been applied across clinical and technological contexts, to inform how they might be optimally applied in future evaluations. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review to catalog the range of analytic indicators being used in evaluations of consumer mHealth apps for chronic conditions. We categorized studies according to app structure and application of engagement data and calculated descriptive data for each category. Chi-square and Fisher exact tests of independence were applied to calculate differences between coded variables. RESULTS: A total of 41 studies met our inclusion criteria. The average mHealth evaluation included for review was a two-group pretest-posttest randomized controlled trial of a hybrid-structured app for mental health self-management, had 103 participants, lasted 5 months, did not provide access to health care provider services, measured 3 analytic indicators of engagement, segmented users based on engagement data, applied engagement data for descriptive analyses, and did not report on attrition. Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the following 7 analytic indicators: the number of measures recorded (76%, 31/41), the frequency of interactions logged (73%, 30/41), the number of features accessed (49%, 20/41), the number of log-ins or sessions logged (46%, 19/41), the number of modules or lessons started or completed (29%, 12/41), time spent engaging with the app (27%, 11/41), and the number or content of pages accessed (17%, 7/41). Engagement with unstructured apps was mostly measured by the number of features accessed (8/10, P=.04), and engagement with hybrid apps was mostly measured by the number of measures recorded (21/24, P=.03). A total of 24 studies presented, described, or summarized the data generated from applying analytic indicators to measure engagement. The remaining 17 studies used or planned to use these data to infer a relationship between engagement patterns and intended outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Although researchers measured on average 3 indicators in a single study, the majority reported findings descriptively and did not further investigate how engagement with an app contributed to its impact on health and well-being. Researchers are gaining nuanced insights into engagement but are not yet characterizing effective engagement for improved outcomes. Raising the standard of mHealth app efficacy through measuring analytic indicators of engagement may enable greater confidence in the causal impact of apps on improved chronic health and well-being.
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Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
This scoping review cataloged 7 analytic indicators used to measure engagement with consumer mHealth apps for chronic conditions across 41 included articles. Most studies reported engagement descriptively rather than testing how engagement related to intended health outcomes.
Key findings
- Across 41 articles (33 studies, 8 protocols), the average evaluation was a two-group pretest-posttest RCT of a hybrid-structured mental health self-management app, with 103 participants, lasting 5 months, measuring 3 analytic indicators, segmenting users by engagement, applying engagement data descriptively, and not reporting attrition.
- Engagement was measured by: number of measures recorded (76%, 31/41), frequency of interactions logged (73%, 30/41), number of features accessed (49%, 20/41), number of log-ins or sessions logged (46%, 19/41), number of modules or lessons started/completed (29%, 12/41), time spent engaging (27%, 11/41), and number or content of pages accessed (17%, 7/41).
- Unstructured apps were mostly measured by number of features accessed (8/10, P=.04), while hybrid apps were mostly measured by number of measures recorded (21/24, P=.03). Structured apps were more likely to report only descriptive statistics (7/7, P=.04).
- Of the 41 studies, 24 presented, described, or summarized engagement data descriptively; 17 used or planned to use these data inferentially. Most studies did not report attrition (70%, 23/33).
Methods
- Scoping review guided by Arksey and O’Malley and Levac et al., searching MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, EMBASE, and JMIR and sister journals for articles published November 1, 2015–November 1, 2017, in English, evaluating consumer mHealth apps for chronic condition self-management with objective log data analytics.
- Data extraction coded app structure (structured, hybrid, unstructured), 7 analytic indicators, engagement-based segmentation, application of engagement data (descriptive or inferential), attrition type, and statistical method; descriptive data were calculated and chi-square/Fisher exact tests of independence applied, with Monte Carlo correction when observed counts were below expected counts.
Limitations
- Stated by the paper: the 2-year publication window may not represent the full mHealth literature; only 1 reviewer conducted electronic searches and title/abstract screening; study quality was not assessed; and analytic indicators were not mapped to the 14 identified engagement-related constructs.
- Evident from the text: construct definitions varied significantly across studies, limiting cross-construct comparisons; most studies reported engagement descriptively, so effective engagement for improved outcomes remains largely uncharacterized; and attrition was underreported.
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Claims the paper makes
0 of 81 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Findingown data
The two-group pretest-posttest randomized controlled trial was the most prevalent experimental study design (48%, 10/21).
“with the two-group pretest-posttest randomized controlled trial (RCT) as the most prevalent experimental study design (48%, 10/21)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the frequency of interactions logged (73%, 30/41).
“the frequency of interactions logged (73%, 30/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingnone given
The number of log-ins or sessions logged by users is a commonly used analytic indicator of engagement in reviewed mHealth app studies.
“The number of log-ins or sessions logged by users continues to be a commonly used analytic indicator of engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
There was some overlap in the types of measures being collected across apps targeting the same chronic conditions, such as the number of blood glucose readings recorded as an indicator of engagement with diabetes apps.
“There was some overlap in the types of measures being collected across apps targeting the same chronic conditions, such as the number of blood glucose readings recorded as an indicator of engagement with diabetes apps.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Engagement was the most commonly reported engagement-related construct (27%, 11/41).
“engagement (27%, 11/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
- Findingown data
On average, researchers applied 3 different analytic indicators to measure their engagement data (mean 3.20, SD 1.42; median 3, IQR 2).
“On average, researchers applied 3 different analytic indicators to measure their engagement data (mean 3.20, SD 1.42; median 3, IQR 2).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the number of log-ins or sessions logged (46%, 19/41).
“the number of log-ins or sessions logged (46%, 19/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
The range of features accessed by users in an app was frequently measured as an analytic indicator of engagement.
“The range of features accessed by users in an app was frequently measured as an analytic indicator of engagement.”
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Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using time spent engaging with the app (27%, 11/41).
“time spent engaging with the app (27%, 11/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Some researchers assigned a benchmark number of days to signify engagement.
“Some researchers assigned a benchmark number of days to signify engagement”
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Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the number of modules or lessons started or completed (29%, 12/41).
“the number of modules or lessons started or completed (29%, 12/41)”
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Stratifying frequency of interactions by specific date ranges was common.
“Stratifying frequency of interactions by specific date ranges was also common”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingnone given
The frequency of interactions logged was the second most prevalent analytic indicator of engagement.
“The frequency of interactions logged was the second most prevalent analytic indicator of engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the number of features accessed (49%, 20/41).
“the number of features accessed (49%, 20/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Engagement with unstructured apps was mostly measured by the number of features accessed (8/10, P=.04).
“engagement with unstructured apps was mostly measured by the number of features accessed (8/10, P=.04)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Health care provider services were accessible to users to support managing their condition in nearly half of all reviewed apps (44%, 18/41).
“Health care provider services were accessible to users to support managing their condition in nearly half of all reviewed apps (44%, 18/41).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Researchers evaluated a range of measures that aligned with their target chronic condition, such as blood glucose, weight, symptoms, patient-reported outcomes, diary entries, and steps.
“Researchers evaluated a range of measures that aligned with their target chronic condition, such as blood glucose [56,60,61,64,73], weight [56,73,74], symptoms [66,68,69], patient-reported outcomes [38,46,52,65,71], diary entries [47,66], and steps [51].”
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- Findingcitation
Others assigned significance to a specific day and considered reaching it as an indicator of engagement.
“Others assigned significance to a specific day and considered reaching it as an indicator of engagement”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the number of measures recorded (76%, 31/41).
“the number of measures recorded (76%, 31/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Engagement with hybrid apps was mostly measured by the number of measures recorded (21/24, P=.03).
“engagement with hybrid apps was mostly measured by the number of measures recorded (21/24, P=.03)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
The majority of reviewed studies were experimental (51%, 21/41).
“The majority of reviewed studies were experimental (51%, 21/41)”
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A total of 19 studies applied engagement-based segmentation and reported results for separate user cohorts (58%, 19/33).
“A total of 19 studies applied engagement-based segmentation and reported results for separate user cohorts (58%, 19/33).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingnone given
In reviewed studies, the number of log-ins was often coupled with the frequency of interactions logged to standardize counts.
“This indicator was often coupled with the frequency of interactions logged to standardize counts.”
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Frisbee et al measured the number of unique apps used in a suite of 6 apps for PTSD self-management.
“Frisbee et al measured the number of unique apps used in the suite [39].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [39] source
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- Findingnone given
Researchers frequently measured the number of users who opened an app at least once to segment them from users who downloaded the app but never logged subsequent activity.
“Researchers also frequently measured the number of users who opened an app at least once to segment them from users who had downloaded the app but never logged any subsequent activity.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingnone given
Researchers primarily logged the number of features accessed and the number of times each feature was accessed.
“Researchers primarily logged (1) the number of features accessed and (2) the number of times each feature was accessed.”
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In total, 41 articles comprising 33 studies and 8 protocols met the eligibility criteria and were included for review.
“In total, 41 articles comprising 33 studies and 8 protocols met the eligibility criteria and were included for review.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingnone given
Researchers often chose to complement assessing the number of measures recorded on an app with the frequency by which the measures were recorded.
“Researchers often chose to complement assessing the number of measures recorded on an app with the frequency by which the measures were recorded.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Ben-Zeev et al measured the number of times users chose the video feature over the written content feature in an app for schizophrenia self-management.
“Ben-Zeev et al measured the number of times users chose the video feature over the written content feature [36].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [36] source
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- Findingown data
Researchers reported log data analytics across 14 different engagement-related constructs.
“Researchers reported log data analytics across 14 different engagement-related constructs:”
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Across the reviewed studies, engagement was measured using the number or content of pages accessed (17%, 7/41).
“the number or content of pages accessed (17%, 7/41)”
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A subset of reviewed researchers considered time spent engaging with an app an analytic indicator of engagement.
“The amount of time that users engaged with an app was considered by a subset of researchers to be an analytic indicator of engagement.”
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Researchers were more likely to descriptively summarize raw attrition proportions than statistically analyze them (70%, 7/10).
“Researchers were more likely to descriptively summarize raw attrition proportions than statistically analyze them (70%, 7/10).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Of the 10 reviewed studies that reported attrition, 5 reported dropout attrition (50%).
“Of the 10 studies that did, 5 reported on dropout attrition (50%), 4 reported on nonusage attrition (40%), and 1 reported on both phenomena (10%).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Of the 10 reviewed studies that reported attrition, 4 reported nonusage attrition (40%).
“Of the 10 studies that did, 5 reported on dropout attrition (50%), 4 reported on nonusage attrition (40%), and 1 reported on both phenomena (10%).”
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The remaining 17 reviewed studies used or planned to use engagement data to infer a relationship between engagement patterns and intended outcomes.
“The remaining 17 studies used or planned to use these data to infer a relationship between engagement patterns and intended outcomes.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Toro-Ramos et al found that users with sustained usage across 19 weeks of a hypertension self-management app experienced significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and weight.
“Toro-Ramos et al measured the number of weeks users engaged with their hypertension self-management app and found that users with sustained usage across 19 weeks experienced significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and weight [74].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [74] source
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Reviewed studies paid less attention to the breadth of engagement (49%, 20/41).
“There was less attention on the breadth (49%, 20/41) and duration (27%, 11/41) of engagement.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Researchers who segmented users into cohorts were more likely to conduct subgroup analyses and infer properties of the larger clinical population (14/19, P<.001).
“Most researchers who did not segment users into cohorts based on engagement data only reported descriptive statistics on their engagement data (13/14, P<.001), while researchers who segmented their users into cohorts were more likely to conduct subgroup analyses and infer properties of the larger clinical population (14/19, P<.001).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Most reviewed studies focused on the amount of engagement (73%, 30/41).
“The focus of most reviewed studies was on the depth (76%, 31/41) and amount of engagement (73%, 30/41).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Of the 10 reviewed studies that reported attrition, 1 reported both dropout and nonusage attrition (10%).
“Of the 10 studies that did, 5 reported on dropout attrition (50%), 4 reported on nonusage attrition (40%), and 1 reported on both phenomena (10%).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Goyal et al found a significant relationship between increased blood glucose readings and improved glycated hemoglobin after 6 months among users who reported 5 or more readings a day.
“Goyal et al segmented all users who reported 5 or more blood glucose readings a day into a subgroup for secondary analyses and found a significant relationship between increased readings and improved glycated hemoglobin after 6 months [59].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [59] source
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- Findingown data
Hybrid and unstructured app structures made up the majority of apps under review.
“We also found that both these indicators were most often used to assess hybrid and unstructured apps; these 2 app structures also made up the majority of apps under review.”
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Many reviewed researchers investigated the effect of engagement behaviors on other engagement outcomes (53%, 9/17).
“Many researchers sought to investigate the effect of engagement behaviors on other engagement outcomes (53%, 9/17).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Most reviewed studies focused on the depth of engagement (76%, 31/41).
“The focus of most reviewed studies was on the depth (76%, 31/41) and amount of engagement (73%, 30/41).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingnone given
The majority of analyses establishing predictive validity of engagement for clinical outcomes relied on nonexperimental variations in engagement due to nonadherence or implementation infidelity.
“However, the majority of analyses conducted to establish this predictive validity relied on nonexperimental variations in engagement due to nonadherence or implementation infidelity.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The majority of reviewed studies did not report on attrition (70%, 23/33).
“The majority of reviewed studies did not report on attrition (70%, 23/33).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Time spent engaging with the app was mostly reported descriptively (73%, 8/11).
“We noted that researchers were least likely to measure the number of pages accessed and time spent engaging with the app; the latter indicator was mostly reported descriptively (73%, 8/11).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Two reviewed studies proposed to evaluate the impact of engagement patterns on health care utilization outcomes (12%, 2/17).
“Two studies proposed to evaluate the impact of engagement patterns on health care utilization outcomes (12%, 2/17).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Over half of all reviewed researchers assessed the relationship between engagement and clinical outcomes (53%, 9/17).
“Over half of all researchers assessed the relationship between engagement and clinical outcomes (53%, 9/17).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Most researchers who did not segment users into cohorts based on engagement data only reported descriptive statistics on their engagement data (13/14, P<.001).
“Most researchers who did not segment users into cohorts based on engagement data only reported descriptive statistics on their engagement data (13/14, P<.001), while researchers who segmented their users into cohorts were more likely to conduct subgroup analyses and infer properties of the larger clinical population (14/19, P<.001).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingcitation
Goyal et al identified a significant interaction between entering a reading on at least three days a week and improved daily blood glucose self-monitoring.
“They also identified a significant interaction between users who entered a reading on at least three days a week, and improved daily blood glucose self-monitoring.”
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- Findingcitation
Serrano et al distinguished highly engaged subgroups by the number of customizations made to diet and exercise features of a weight loss app.
“In their study examining engagement with a weight loss app, Serrano et al applied classification and regression tree methods to identify subgroups with unique engagement behaviors [79]. They were able to distinguish highly engaged subgroups by the number of customizations made to the diet and exercise features of the app.”
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Most studies that applied inferential statistics also measured the frequency of interactions logged (16/17, P=.014).
“In addition, most studies that applied inferential statistics also measured the frequency of interactions logged (16/17, P=.014).”
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Both the number of measures recorded and frequency of interactions logged were most often used to assess hybrid and unstructured apps.
“We also found that both these indicators were most often used to assess hybrid and unstructured apps; these 2 app structures also made up the majority of apps under review.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Reviewed studies paid less attention to the duration of engagement (27%, 11/41).
“There was less attention on the breadth (49%, 20/41) and duration (27%, 11/41) of engagement.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The Fisher exact test indicated that studies of structured apps were more likely to only report descriptive statistics on engagement data (7/7, P=.04).
“The Fisher exact test of independence indicated that studies of structured apps were more likely to only report descriptive statistics on engagement data (7/7, P=.04).”
- Also stated in: § Principal Findings · hedged
“Our analyses indicated that studies of structured apps were more likely to only report descriptive statistics on engagement data.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Also stated in: § Principal Findings · hedged
- Findingown data
Of the 41 studies included for review, 24 presented, described, or summarized data generated from applying analytic indicators to measure engagement.
“Of the 41 studies included for review, 24 presented, described, or summarized the data generated from applying analytic indicators to measure engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Kuhn et al did not find a significant relationship between number of days and weeks engaged with a PTSD self-management app and changes in PTSD symptoms.
“In their trial of an app for PTSD self-management, Kuhn et al applied the number of days and weeks users engaged with the app as a predictor variable for changes in PTSD symptoms but did not find a significant relationship [41].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [41] source
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- Findingcitation
A range of reviewed studies measured the number of outcome surveys completed from those assigned.
“A range of studies measured the number of outcome surveys completed from those assigned [45,68,75].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked - Findingown data
Researchers were least likely to measure the number of pages accessed and time spent engaging with the app.
“We noted that researchers were least likely to measure the number of pages accessed and time spent engaging with the app; the latter indicator was mostly reported descriptively (73%, 8/11).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Researchers favored evaluating the number of measures recorded on an app as an indicator of engagement, closely followed by the frequency of interactions logged.
“We found that the researchers favored evaluating the number of measures recorded on an app as an indicator of engagement, closely followed by the frequency of interactions logged.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
In contrast to Sieverink et al's findings, the majority of our reviewed studies applied between 2 and 4 analytic indicators to measure engagement.
“In contrast to Sieverink et al’s findings, the majority of our reviewed studies applied between 2 and 4 analytic indicators to measure engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingnone given
There is less inclination to log and report on analytic indicators of disengagement.
“There is less inclination to log and report on analytic indicators of disengagement.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingnone given
We did not observe any significant differences between the number or type of analytic indicators used to measure engagement across chronic conditions.
“We did not observe any significant differences between the number or type of analytic indicators used to measure engagement across chronic conditions.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingnone given
From our review of the literature before conducting our search, we identified a paucity of papers that focused on mHealth log data analyses.
“From our review of the literature before conducting our search, we identified a paucity of papers that focused on mHealth log data analyses.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
We could not discern significant differences between the constructs and their analytic operationalizations.
“and could not discern significant differences.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingreasoning
Researchers applied indicators that were relevant to the features and functionality of their app.
“Researchers applied indicators that were relevant to the features and functionality of their app.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingnone given
During our full-text review, we excluded a large number of studies because they did not include objective, quantifiable measurements using log data analytics.
“During our full-text review, we excluded a large number of studies because they did not include objective, quantifiable measurements using log data analytics.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Of the studies that applied inferential statistics, most measured the number of days, weeks, or months users engaged with an app.
“Of the studies that applied inferential statistics, most measured the number of days, week, or months users engaged with an app.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingcitation
Our identification of the number of measures recorded on an app as an analytic indicator of engagement deviates from previous research by Sieverink et al, which found no evidence that researchers were operationalizing constructs in this way.
“Our identification of the number of measures recorded on an app as an analytic indicator of engagement deviates from previous research by Sieverink et al on usage and adherence to eHealth interventions [17], which found no evidence that researchers were operationalizing constructs in this way.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] source
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- Premisecitation
Other mobile health apps have performed poorly.
“While some apps have demonstrated efficacy in definitive trials [2-5], others have performed poorly [6-9].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 4 sources checked - Premisecitation
There is mixed evidence to support current ambitions for mobile health apps to improve chronic health and well-being.
“There is mixed evidence to support current ambitions for mobile health (mHealth) apps to improve chronic health and well-being.”
- Also stated in: § Background · plain
“There is mixed evidence to support current ambitions for mobile health (mHealth) apps to improve chronic health and well-being [1].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [1] source
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- Also stated in: § Background · plain
- Premisecitation
Some mobile health apps have demonstrated efficacy in definitive trials.
“While some apps have demonstrated efficacy in definitive trials [2-5], others have performed poorly [6-9].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked - Premisecitation
The scoping review framework is particularly relevant to disciplines with emerging evidence, such as mobile health, in which the paucity of definitive research makes it difficult for researchers to undertake systematic reviews.
“This framework is particularly relevant to disciplines with emerging evidence, such as mHealth, in which the paucity of definitive research makes it difficult for researchers to undertake systematic reviews [28].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [28] source
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- Study design and conductreasoning
Conducting a scoping review allowed the authors to incorporate a range of study designs beyond those accepted for inclusion in systematic reviews, to generate broad findings on how researchers are measuring engagement with consumer mobile health apps for chronic conditions.
“In this context, conducting a scoping review allowed us to incorporate a range of study designs beyond those accepted for inclusion in systematic reviews, to generate broad findings on how researchers are measuring engagement with consumer mHealth apps for chronic conditions.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
The construct of effective engagement differs conceptually from both engagement and adherence, which have historically been used interchangeably.
“The construct of effective engagement differs conceptually from both engagement and adherence, which have historically been used interchangeably [16].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [16] source
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- Interpretationreasoning
The target chronic condition and functionality of the app under study ultimately determined which measures would be collected and subsequently reported as an analytic indicator of engagement.
“Overall, the target chronic condition and functionality of the app under study ultimately determined which measures would be collected and subsequently reported as an analytic indicator of engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Researchers applied the number of features accessed to explore the breadth of app engagement and inform feature popularity and relevance for the target population.
“Overall, researchers applied this analytic indicator to explore the breadth of app engagement and inform feature popularity and relevance for the target population.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
The breadth and duration categories that conceptually comprise the number of pages accessed and time spent indicators were also deprioritized.
“The breadth and duration categories that conceptually comprise these analytic indicators were also deprioritized.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
There was evidence of predictive validity across reviewed studies, with engagement correlating with improved clinical outcomes.
“Overall, there was evidence of predictive validity across reviewed studies, with engagement correlating with improved clinical outcomes.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
There were strong predictive relationships between numerous engagement domains.
“In summary, there were strong predictive relationships between numerous engagement domains.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Study design and conductreasoning
The most significant methodological limitation of this scoping review is that we only reviewed articles published over a 2-year period.
“Some methodological limitations of our scoping review warrant discussion, the most significant being that we only reviewed articles published over a 2-year period.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Premisecitation
To date, the potential for mHealth apps to positively impact chronic health outcomes has not yet been realized.
“To date, the potential for mHealth apps to positively impact chronic health outcomes has not yet been realized [89].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [89] NilsenWAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science20152018-12-24mHealth's Revolution: Balancing Help and Harm https://www.aaas.org/sites/default/files/Nilsen%20mHealths%20Revolution%20Balancing%20Help%20and%20Harm.pdf
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
We may have missed relevant studies published before November 2015 and after November 2017 that would have met our eligibility criteria.
“As such, we may have missed relevant studies published before November 2015 and after November 2017 that would have met our eligibility criteria.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
This finding suggests that researchers consider a temporal understanding of engagement to be important in determining a predictive effect on intended outcomes.
“This finding suggests that researchers consider a temporal understanding of engagement to be important in determining a predictive effect on intended outcomes.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
The unrealized potential of mHealth apps is in part due to difficulties of generating a solid evidence base to guide clinical, policy, and regulatory decision making.
“This is, in part, due to the difficulties of generating a solid evidence base to guide clinical, policy, and regulatory decision making [90].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [90] source
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- Interpretationown data
Our findings suggest that Eysenbach's counsel has not fully translated into practice in the mHealth field.
“Our findings suggest that this counsel has not fully translated into practice in the mHealth field.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
The absence of a comparison to a threshold for intended use renders Sieverink et al's operationalization incongruent with the definition of adherence.
“The absence of a comparison to a threshold for intended use renders this operationalization incongruent with the definition of adherence.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Sieverink et al found that the majority of studies reported adherence only in terms of how an intervention was used.
“On reviewing how researchers were operationalizing adherence, they found that the majority reported adherence only in terms of how an intervention was used.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] source
Not checked in the free run.
- Premisecitation
The mHealth field has been reproached for arguing that apps warrant digital exceptionalism given the iterative nature of their design and the prohibitive cost of trials compared with their perceived level of risk.
“Indeed, the mHealth field has been reproached for arguing that apps warrant digital exceptionalism given the iterative nature of their design and the prohibitive cost of trials compared with their perceived level of risk [91].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [91] source
Not checked in the free run.
- Premisecitation
The number of studies omitted from our scoping review is small.
“However, they also suggest that the number of studies we omitted is small.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Perski et al’s review
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
Our sample is sufficiently robust to provide a representative understanding of how analytics are being applied to study engagement with mHealth apps.
“For these reasons, we posit that our sample is sufficiently robust to provide a representative understanding of how analytics are being applied to study engagement with mHealth apps.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
This 2-year sampling frame may not have captured a representative sample of mHealth literature.
“This sampling frame may not have captured a representative sample of mHealth literature.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationcitation
Our focus on reviewing studies of mHealth apps for self-managing chronic conditions may explain the deviation from Sieverink et al, as these interventions encourage users to systematically record data and capture variability of their disease state over time.
“Our focus on reviewing studies of mHealth apps for self-managing chronic conditions may explain this finding, as these interventions encourage users to systematically record data and capture the variability of their disease state over time [84].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [84] Stinson, JN, 2014, Pain Res Manag source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
We have included a homogenous body of research in this review.
“As such, we feel that we have included a homogenous body of research in this review”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Study design and conductnone given
Our scoping review did not include all studies that applied log data analyses to study engagement with mHealth apps.
“scoping review did not include all studies that applied log data analyses to study engagement with mHealth apps.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
We believe the 2-year sampling frame captures the application of analytics within the field of mHealth.
“While we acknowledge that our sampling frame is limited in scoping the entire field of mHealth, we believe it captures the application of analytics within the field of mHealth.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- The authors state this as an assumption: The 2-year sampling frame captures the application of analytics within the field of mHealth.
- Interpretationcitation
These insights confirm that our scoping review did not include all studies that applied log data analyses to study engagement with mHealth apps.
“These insights confirm that our scoping review did not include all studies that applied log data analyses to study engagement with mHealth apps.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Study design and conductreasoning
Having only 1 reviewer conduct the electronic searches and screen all titles and abstracts potentially introduced bias.
“thereby potentially introducing bias.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 49
- May combine two claims. 37
- The quote only partly states this claim. 1
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe first authors of reviewed studies were affiliated with institutions in the United States (46%, 19/41), Canada (20%, 8/41), the United Kingdom (10%, 4/41), Australia (5%, 2/41), Germany (5%, 2/41), the Netherlands (5%, 2/41), France (2%, 1/41), India (2%, 1/41), Singapore (2%, 1/41), Spain (2%, 1/41), Sweden (2%, 1/41), and Switzerland (2%, 1/41).
“The first authors of reviewed studies were affiliated with institutions in the United States (46%, 19/41), Canada (20%, 8/41), the United Kingdom (10%, 4/41), Australia (5%, 2/41), Germany (5%, 2/41), the Netherlands (5%, 2/41), France (2%, 1/41), India (2%, 1/41), Singapore (2%, 1/41), Spain (2%, 1/41), Sweden (2%, 1/41), and Switzerland (2%, 1/41).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataOver half of the apps had a hybrid structure (59%, 24/41).
“Over half of the apps had a hybrid structure (59%, 24/41)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataA wide range of chronic conditions were targeted through the apps under study, with mental health (29%, 12/41), chronic pain (12%, 5/41), asthma (10%, 4/41), cardiovascular disease (7%, 3/41), and diabetes (type 1 and 2; 15%, 6/41) leading the clinical charge.
“A wide range of chronic conditions were targeted through the apps under study, with mental health (29%, 12/41), chronic pain (12%, 5/41), asthma (10%, 4/41), cardiovascular disease (7%, 3/41), and diabetes (type 1 and 2; 15%, 6/41) leading the clinical charge.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataResearchers also evaluated apps for cancer (5%, 2/41), hypertension (5%, 2/41), obesity (5%, 2/41), chronic kidney disease (2%, 1/41), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (2%, 1/41), cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease (2%, 1/41), Parkinson disease (2%, 1/41), and sleep apnea (2%, 1/41).
“Researchers also evaluated apps for cancer (5%, 2/41), hypertension (5%, 2/41), obesity (5%, 2/41), chronic kidney disease (2%, 1/41), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (2%, 1/41), cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease (2%, 1/41), Parkinson disease (2%, 1/41), and sleep apnea (2%, 1/41).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
FindingreasoningThe remaining 13 studies included for review were observational in design (32%, 13/41).
“The remaining 13 studies included for review were observational in design (32%, 13/41).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataStudies were on average 5 months long (median 152 days, IQR 106).
“Studies were on average 5 months long (median 152 days, interquartile range, IQR 106)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThere was significant variation in how constructs were defined across studies, which limited the authors' ability to extract reliable definitions, map analytic indicators to specific constructs, and conduct cross-construct comparisons.
“There was significant variation in how constructs were defined across studies, which limited our ability to (1) extract reliable definitions for each construct, (2) map analytic indicators to specific constructs, and (3) conduct cross-construct comparisons of analytic indicators.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
FindingcitationOwen et al measured the number of sessions logged by users on their PTSD self-management app and the number of users who logged at least one session on the first day, week, and month post download.
“Owen et al made both these associations by measuring the number of sessions logged by users on their PTSD self-management app, as well as the number of users who logged at least one session on the first day, week, and month post download [42].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [42] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
FindingcitationThe longest reviewed observational study conducted by Serrano et al was 7 years long with over 1 million participants.
“The longest reviewed observational study conducted by Serrano et al was 7 years long with over 1 million participants [34].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [34] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataNearly half of all structured apps were aimed at improving mental health (40%, 4/10).
“Nearly half of all structured apps were aimed at improving mental health (40%, 4/10).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataStudies had a sample size of over 100 participants (median 103, IQR 252).
“with a sample size of over 100 participants (median 103, IQR 252)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataA total of 1873 articles were identified through the database search.
“A total of 1873 articles were identified through the database search.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data10 apps were unstructured (24%).
“10 apps were unstructured (24%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataIn total, 14 of the reviewed studies were published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research or its sister journals (34%, 14/41).
“In total, 14 of the reviewed studies were published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research or its sister journals (34%, 14/41).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataQuasi-experimental design selection (17%, 7/41) was more diverse and included cohort (29%, 2/7), interrupted time-series (14%, 1/7), and single case (14%, 1/7) studies.
“Quasi-experimental design selection (17%, 7/41) was more diverse and included cohort (29%, 2/7), interrupted time-series (14%, 1/7), and single case (14%, 1/7) studies.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Findingown dataOf the 60 full texts screened, 19 were excluded, 8 of which did not include objective, quantifiable measurements using log data analytics.
“Of the 60 full texts screened, 19 were excluded, 8 of which did not include objective, quantifiable measurements using log data analytics.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown data7 apps were structured (17%).
“and 7 apps were structured (17%)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataThe one-group pretest-posttest design was the second most prevalent experimental study design (43%, 9/21).
“followed by the one-group pretest-posttest design (43%, 9/21)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
FindingcitationReviewed studies assessed the number of videos watched from a playlist, educational modules completed, or self-care advice accessed.
“Others assessed the number of videos watched from a playlist [36,55], educational modules completed [52], or self-care advice accessed [69].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checkedProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
FindingcitationDavies et al segmented sessions by those in the 30- to 60-second range.
“Davies et al also segmented sessions by those that were in the 30- to 60-second range [38].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [38] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
FindingcitationReviewed researchers measured time spent on unique sections, unique pages, length of a unique session, length between unique sessions, and total time spent on an app.
“Researchers measured the time spent on unique sections of an app [66], the time spent on unique pages [56], the length of a unique session [38,42,43,71], the length between unique sessions [72], and the total time spent on an app [62,68,73].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 6 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
FindingcitationTaki et al combined session analytics with page analytics and measured the number of pages viewed per session in their obesity self-management app.
“Taki et al combined session analytics with page analytics and measured the number of pages viewed per session in their app for obesity self-management [72].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [72] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Findingown dataReviewed studies that compared attrition curves used Kaplan-Meier survival curves, Cox regression models, and latent class growth models.
“Those that conducted comparisons across attrition curves used Kaplan-Meier survival curves (10%, 1/10), Cox regression models (10%, 2/10), and latent class growth models (10%, 1/10).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingnone givenResearchers used the number of log-ins or sessions to reflect the shift from adoption to habituation, with greater numbers denoting greater engagement.
“Researchers used this analytic indicator to reflect the shift from adoption to habituation, with a greater number of log-ins or sessions denoting greater engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). The quote only partly states this claim.
FindingreasoningThe number of pages accessed by users was logged by reviewed researchers to reflect overall patterns of app engagement and discoverability of specific content.
“The number of pages accessed by users was logged by researchers to reflect overall patterns of app engagement and discoverability of specific content.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
FindingcitationOwen et al recorded click stream data documenting users' navigation through page content.
“Owen et al recorded click stream data documenting their users’ navigation through page content [42].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [42] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
FindingcitationGoh et al identified 3 distinct 8-week app engagement trajectories based on frequency of interactions and associated patient characteristics with these trajectories.
“They were able to identify 3 distinct app trajectories based on the frequency of interactions and also associate patient characteristics with these trajectories.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [63] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
FindingcitationBen-Zeev et al found that participants who engaged with their schizophrenia self-management app for 5 to 6 months had a higher frequency of interactions and engaged 4.3 days per week on average.
“Ben-Zeev et al found that participants who engaged with their schizophrenia self-management app for a period of 5 to 6 months also had a higher frequency of interactions and engaged 4.3 days per week on average [37].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [37] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
FindingcitationKuhn et al measured the number and content of pages visited by users in their PTSD self-management app, as did other researchers.
“Kuhn et al measured the number and content of pages visited by users in their app for PTSD self-management, as did other researchers [38,41,71].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
FindingreasoningResearchers studying apps with modular content considered module completion indicative of engagement and tracked module progression and completion rates.
“Overall, researchers studying apps with modular content considered module completion to be indicative of engagement and consequently, tracked module progression and completion rates.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
FindingcitationTorous et al found that future use of a schizophrenia self-management app is directly related to prior app use, suggesting those who engage more often have a higher probability of future engagement.
“They found that future use with the app is directly related to prior app use, suggesting that those who engage with the app more often will have a higher probability of app engagement in the future.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [44] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
FindingreasoningStudies of apps for diabetes self-management often measured the number of blood glucose readings but never measured the number of modules or lessons because these features were not offered to users.
“For example, studies of apps for diabetes self-management often measured the number of blood glucose readings due to the popularity of this feature but never measured the number of modules or lessons because these features were not offered to users.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataAlthough researchers measured, on average, 3 indicators in a single study, the majority reported findings descriptively and did not further investigate how engagement with an app contributed to its impact on health and well-being.
“Although researchers measured, on average, 3 indicators in a single study, the majority reported findings descriptively and did not further investigate how engagement with an app contributed to its impact on health and well-being.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataSome studies had users self-report their engagement, whereas others omitted reporting engagement altogether and solely related findings on app efficacy.
“Some studies had users self-report their engagement, whereas others omitted reporting engagement altogether and solely related findings on app efficacy.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationEvaluating engagement is a priority and calls for the integration of nonintrusive measures of this construct in mobile health evaluation methodology.
“Evaluating engagement is therefore a priority and calls for the integration of nonintrusive measures of this construct in mHealth evaluation methodology [14].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [14] source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThe construct of engagement has been quantitatively conceptualized as the amount, duration, breadth, and depth of intervention usage.
“The construct of engagement has been quantitatively conceptualized as the amount, duration, breadth, and depth of intervention usage [11,12].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
PremisecitationThese digitally mediated mechanisms of action require more granular evaluations capable of analyzing multilevel, temporally dense engagement data.
“These digitally mediated mechanisms of action require more granular evaluations capable of analyzing multilevel, temporally dense engagement data [13].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [13] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationMany researchers have included analytic indicators as a study measure when evaluating apps, but they are not consistent or systematic in their selection.
“While many researchers have included analytic indicators as a study measure when evaluating apps, they are not consistent or systematic in their selection [26].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [26] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).
InterpretationreasoningAnalytic insights from microengagement can be coupled with measures of macroengagement to identify the mediating mechanisms that motivate effective engagement.
“In turn, these analytic insights can be coupled with measures of macroengagement to identify the mediating mechanisms that motivate effective engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningThere is benefit to understanding how engagement with mobile health apps for chronic conditions has been defined, measured, and analyzed across evaluations.
“We propose that there is benefit to understanding how engagement with mHealth apps for chronic conditions has been defined, measured, and analyzed across evaluations.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
InterpretationreasoningLayering the frequency of interactions over other indicators added temporal context to better understand how users were engaging over time.
“Layering this analytic indicator over other indicators added temporal context to better understand how users were engaging over time.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningMeasuring and reporting on microengagement is fundamental to understanding how people actually use an app to improve their health and well-being.
“However, we posit that measuring and reporting on microengagement is fundamental to understanding how people actually use an app to improve their health and well-being.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningAnalytic indicators of engagement indicate that users may be engaging effectively with a digital health intervention but do not definitively confirm a relationship between engagement and intended outcomes.
“We propose that analytic indicators of engagement do exactly this: they indicate that users may be engaging effectively with a digital health intervention but do not definitively confirm a relationship between engagement and intended outcomes.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenA data extraction form was piloted on a sample of included articles to validate proposed codes and add emergent codes.
“The form was piloted on a sample of included articles to validate proposed codes and add emergent codes.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenFull papers of included abstracts were assessed for final selection by all study authors.
“Following title and abstract review, full papers of included abstracts were assessed for final selection by all study authors.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationThe application of analytics is an emerging approach to study and interpret engagement with mobile health interventions.
“The application of analytics, defined as the use of data to generate new insights [18], is an emerging approach to study and interpret engagement with mHealth interventions [19].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
Study design and conductcitationThis scoping review was guided by the methodological framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley and advanced by Levac et al.
“This scoping review was guided by the methodological framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley [27] and advanced by Levac et al [28].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationEstablishing the relationship between engagement and intended outcomes requires adopting a mixed-methods multidimensional approach to measure effective engagement using multiple assessment strategies.
“Establishing this relationship requires adopting a mixed-methods multidimensional approach to measure effective engagement using multiple assessment strategies [14,25].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningA subset of researchers are either not measuring the breadth and duration of engagement in their mHealth evaluations or underreporting the findings.
“TThese findings suggest that a subset of researchers are either not measuring the breadth and duration of engagement in their mHealth evaluations or underreporting the findings.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningMeasuring time spent engaging with an app helped researchers distinguish exploratory from purposeful engagement, with rapid short page views indicating scanning and prolonged viewing suggesting greater intention and interest.
“Measuring time spent engaging with an app helped researchers to distinguish between exploratory and purposeful engagement; a rapid succession of short page views was indicative of scanning through content, whereas prolonged viewing suggested greater intention and interest in content.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThe limited sample of reviewed studies suggests that the relationship between engagement and utilization outcomes is underdeveloped and warrants further study.
“Altogether, the limited sample of reviewed studies suggests that the relationship between engagement and utilization outcomes is underdeveloped and warrants further study.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningInsights from the number of pages accessed provided researchers with a broader understanding of the user journey through an app and drew attention to specific content that might drive engagement.
“Insights gleaned from this analytic indicator provided researchers with a broader understanding of the user journey through an app and drew attention to specific content that might drive engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationUsers perceive apps to be a short-term commitment and access app-based content sporadically for shorter periods of time compared with Web-based interventions.
“Users perceive apps to be a short-term commitment [81] and access app-based content sporadically for shorter periods of time compared with Web-based interventions [82].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checkedProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductnone givenWe did not map analytic indicators to the 14 identified engagement-related constructs for analysis.
“Finally, we did not map analytic indicators to the 14 identified engagement-related constructs for analysis.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Study design and conductreasoningOnly 1 reviewer conducted the electronic searches and screened all titles and abstracts against eligibility criteria.
“Due to limited resources, only 1 reviewer conducted the electronic searches and screened all titles and abstracts against eligibility criteria”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationSieverink et al concluded that a limited but deliberate set of only one of 2 different indicators in accordance with the goal of the technology is sufficient to operationalize adherence.
“The authors conclude that a limited but deliberate set of only one of 2 different indicators in accordance with the goal of the technology is sufficient to operationalize adherence.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationSimblett et al found that studies were reporting idiosyncratic measures of engagement and adherence that were not comparable across studies.
“In a recent review on the barriers and facilitators of engagement with remote measurement technology for managing health, Simblett et al found that studies were reporting idiosyncratic measures of engagement and adherence that were not comparable across studies [26].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [26] source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim.
Interpretationnone givenIt is possible to use multiple constructs in the same study.
“and it is possible to use multiple constructs in the same study.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningRaising the standard of mHealth app efficacy through measuring analytic indicators of engagement may enable greater confidence in the causal impact of apps on improved chronic health and well-being.
“Raising the standard of mHealth app efficacy through measuring analytic indicators of engagement may enable greater confidence in the causal impact of apps on improved chronic health and well-being.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
Study design and conductnone givenWe reviewed each construct and its analytic operationalizations separately during our data extraction process.
“However, we reviewed each construct and its analytic operationalizations separately during our data extraction process”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationPerski et al reviewed 113 studies up to November 2015, of which 13 were on mobile phone-based interventions, and only 4 applied log data analyses to study engagement.
“Perski et al conducted a systematic review on engagement with digital behavior change interventions that comprised all studies up to November 2015 [11]. They reviewed 113 studies, of which 13 were on mobile phone–based interventions. Only 4 of those studies applied log data analyses to study engagement with the intervention.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [11] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).
Interpretationnone givenWithout objective knowledge of how users engage with an app to care for themselves, the mechanisms of action that underlie complex models of digitally mediated behavior change cannot be identified.
“Without objective knowledge of how users engage with an app to care for themselves, the mechanisms of action that underlie complex models of digitally mediated behavior change cannot be identified.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationEysenbach observed that a substantial portion of participants in eHealth trials stop using the intervention before study end.
“In 2005, Eysenbach published landmark work on the law of attrition [10], which was his observation that a substantial portion of participants in eHealth trials stop using the intervention before study end.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [10] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).
InterpretationreasoningWe have provided accurate insights into how researchers have used analytic indicators to measure engagement.
“and provided accurate insights into how researchers have used analytic indicators to measure engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationYardley et al assert that effective engagement is defined in relation to the purpose of a specific intervention and can only be established empirically in the context of that intervention.
“Their findings align with our own, and support Yardley et al’s assertion that effective engagement is defined in relation to the purpose of a specific intervention and can only be established empirically in the context of that intervention [14].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [14] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningThis finding suggests that researchers are gaining nuanced insights into how users are engaging with their apps but are not conducting inferential analyses to characterize effective engagement for improved outcomes.
“This finding suggests that researchers are gaining nuanced insights into how users are engaging with their apps but are not conducting inferential analyses to characterize effective engagement for improved outcomes.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductreasoningWe did not assess the quality of included articles.
“We did not assess the quality of included articles”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationSieverink et al reviewed 62 papers, of which 7 were on smartphone-based interventions; 5 of those 7 were published after 2016 and 2 in 2013.
“The systematic review on usage-based adherence to eHealth interventions conducted by Sieverink et al reviewed 62 papers, of which 7 were on smartphone-based interventions [17]. Of those 7 papers, 5 were published after 2016, and the other 2 were both published in 2013.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Study design and conductcitationOur sampling frame of November 2015 to November 2017 directly follows Perski et al's review and includes 41 studies to address our specific research questions.
“Our sampling frame of November 2015 to November 2017 directly follows Perski et al’s review and includes 41 studies to address our specific research questions.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Perski et al’s review
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationEysenbach posits that attrition is a fundamental characteristic and methodological challenge in the evaluation of eHealth interventions and recommends that usage metrics and determinants of attrition should be highlighted, measured, analyzed, and discussed.
“He posits that attrition is a fundamental characteristic and methodological challenge in the evaluation of eHealth interventions and recommends that “usage metrics and determinants of attrition should be highlighted, measured, analyzed, and discussed” [10].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [10] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductreasoningNot assessing the quality of included articles is in line with our review framework, which does not mandate this methodological practice.
“however, this is in line with our review framework, which does not mandate this methodological practice.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningOur review supports researchers to harness these natural attributes for conducting data-driven evaluations of digitally mediated behavior change.
“We propose that our review supports researchers to harness these natural attributes for conducting data-driven evaluations of digitally mediated behavior change.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).
InterpretationreasoningThis variance suggests that researchers are starting to recognize a conceptual and methodological distinction between the constructs of engagement and adherence.
“This variance suggests that researchers are starting to recognize a conceptual and methodological distinction between the constructs of engagement and adherence.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Interpretationnone givenConceptual differences exist between some of the 14 engagement-related constructs (eg, usage, feasibility, and adherence).
“We acknowledge that conceptual differences exist between some of these constructs (eg, usage, feasibility, and adherence)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
PremisecitationMorrison et al found that app users logged in twice as often but spent half as much time engaging compared with website users.
“They subsequently found that app users logged in twice as often but spent half as much time engaging compared with website users.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [83] source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationSieverink et al found that over half of all reviewed studies measured adherence to eHealth interventions using a single analytic indicator, and a quarter used 2 indicators.
“In their systematic review, Sieverink et al found that over half of all reviewed studies measured adherence to eHealth interventions using a single analytic indicator, and a quarter used 2 indicators [17].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [17] source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).
InterpretationreasoningBenchmarking engagement by time range provides more context on a user's intentions and needs than just the total amount of engagement.
“Benchmarking engagement by time range provides more context on a user’s intentions and needs than just the total amount of engagement.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
The paper relies on this without support.
Complex patterns of engagement with mobile health apps are emerging and challenge current conceptual paradigms for interpreting their impact on chronic health outcomes.
“Complex patterns of engagement with mHealth apps are emerging and challenge current conceptual paradigms for interpreting their impact on chronic health outcomes.”
The paper relies on this without support.
For many mobile health app evaluations, users can be segmented along a continuum of engagement; some will never use the app, some will use it but quickly abandon it, and some will use it in unexpected ways.
“For many mHealth app evaluations, users can be segmented along a continuum of engagement; some will never use the app, some will use it but quickly abandon it, and some will use it in unexpected ways.”
The authors state this as an assumption.
The 2-year sampling frame captures the application of analytics within the field of mHealth.
“While we acknowledge that our sampling frame is limited in scoping the entire field of mHealth, we believe it captures the application of analytics within the field of mHealth.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Adding analytic tags to an app's source code allows researchers to measure engagement without creating user burden or reactivity.
“allowing them to measure engagement without creating user burden or reactivity.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Data generated from analytic tags can be used in inferential analyses to delineate relationships with observed health outcomes.
“Once generated, these data can be used in inferential analyses to delineate relationships with observed health outcomes.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Rapid cycles of research and development can validate hypothesized models of effective engagement.
“Researchers can further interrogate these data by conducting rapid cycles of research and development to validate hypothesized models of effective engagement.”
Claims other papers make about this one
Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?
Many digital medicine technologies have poor uptake.
“Whilst the wider field of digital medicine has seen vast growth and investment, many technologies have poor uptake [13, 14].”
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.
Incorrect percentage for structured apps without segmentation
MinorTable 2 gives 4 structured apps without segmentation out of 7 structured apps. That is about 57%, not 47%.
Reported 47 · recomputed 57.142857
“| | No (n=14) | 4 (47) | 7 (29) | 3 (30) |”
Incorrect percentage for unstructured apps with one indicator
MinorTable 2 gives 1 such app out of 10 unstructured apps, which is 10%, not 1%.
Reported 1 · recomputed 10
“| | 1 (n=5) | 1 (14) | 3 (13) | 1 (1) |”
Mental-health apps are assigned to the wrong structure
MinorThe statement describes 4 mental-health apps as structured, but Table 2 lists 2 structured mental-health apps and 4 unstructured ones.
“Nearly half of all structured apps were aimed at improving mental health (40%, 4/10).”
“| | Mental health (n=12) | 2 (29) | 6 (25) | 4 (40) |”
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METHODS FOR CLUSTERING TIME SERIES DATA ACQUIRED FROM MOBILE HEALTH APPS
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Clinically Meaningful Use of Mental Health Apps and its Effects on Depression: Mixed Methods Study
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Associations between Digital Health Intervention Engagement and Dietary Intake: A Systematic Review
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A Digital Depression Treatment Program for Adults Treated in Primary Care
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Research on the Impact of mHealth Apps on the Primary Healthcare Professionals in Patient Care
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Adherence to eHealth Interventions Among Patients With Heart Failure: Scoping Review
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Apps y Medicina: una visión global y la situación chilena
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Who Engages and Why It Matters?
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Becker, E. R., Myneni, S., Shegog, R., Fujimoto, K., Savas, L. S., Frost, E. L., Healy, C. M., Spinner, S. W., & Vernon, S. W. (2022) · Studies in health technology and informatics · doi:10.3233/shti220193 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Approaches to Measuring User Engagement
O'Brien, H. L. (2025) · Synthesis lectures on information concepts, retrieval, and services · doi:10.1007/978-3-031-80916-3_5 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Graboyes, E. M., Levins, O., DeMass, R., Baskar, N., Natale, N., Sterba, K. R., Obeid, J. S., Sharma, S., Hill, E. G., & Dahne, J. (2025) · Psycho-Oncology · doi:10.1002/pon.70309 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Koller, C. N., Blanchard, M., Mettler, J., Prétat, T., Azevedo, P. M., & Hügle, T. (2026) · JMIR mhealth and uhealth · doi:10.2196/78827 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
- Authors
- Pham, Q., Graham, G., Carrion, C., Morita, P. P., Seto, E., Stinson, J. N., & Cafazzo, J. A.
- Affiliations
- University Health Network (CA)
- University of Waterloo (CA)
- University of Toronto (CA)
- ORCID
- Venue
- JMIR mHealth and uHealth
- Publisher
- JMIR Publications Inc.
- Published
- 2019-01-18
- Volume
- 7
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- e11941
- ISSN
- 2291-5222 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC6356188
- OpenAlex
- W2910244894
- Semantic Scholar
- 12075f99ccccec3342cd5c5fdef405ec102dba4f
- Cited by
- 131
- References
- 89
- Citations by year
- 2026: 8 · 2025: 23 · 2024: 10 · 2023: 16 · 2022: 27 · 2021: 22 · 2020: 16 · 2019: 9
- FWCI
- 3.39
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- gold
- doi.org
- Licence
- cc-by
- Locations
- JMIR mhealth and uhealth (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- Europe PMC (PubMed Central) (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
- O2 - Repositori Institucional (Universitat Oberta de Catalunya) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
- Topics
- Health Sciences › Health Professions › General Health Professions › Mobile Health and mHealth Applications
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Applied Psychology › Digital Mental Health Interventions
- Health Sciences › Health Professions › Health Information Management › Health, Technology, Consumer Behavior
- Keywords
- mobile health apps, app engagement, chronic disease, mental health self-management, app evaluation, hybrid mobile applications, customer segmentation, attrition, mobile health intervention
- MeSH terms
- Chronic Disease, Humans, Patient Participation, Program Evaluation, Chi-Square Distribution, Telemedicine
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
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