A Novel Smartphone App for Self-Monitoring of Neonatal Jaundice Among Postpartum Mothers: Qualitative Research Study.

Background: Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) or hyperbilirubinemia is a ubiquitous condition in newborn infants. Currently, the transcutaneous bilirubinometer is used to screen for NNJ in health care facilities, where neonates need to be physically present (ie, a centralized model of care for NNJ screening). Mobile health (mHealth) apps present a low-cost, home-based, and noninvasive system that could facilitate self-monitoring of NNJ and could allow mothers the convenience of screening for NNJ remotely. However, end users' acceptability of such mHealth apps is of fundamental importance before the incorporation of such apps into clinical practice. Objective: The study aimed to explore the perception of postpartum mothers toward self-monitoring of NNJ using a novel mHealth app. Methods: Mothers attending video consultations for early postpartum care at 2 Singapore primary care clinics watched an instructional video for a hyperbilirubinemia-screening mHealth app (HSMA). An independent researcher used a semistructured topic guide to conduct in-depth interviews with 25 mothers, assessing their views on HSMAs. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and checked for accuracy before data analysis. Two researchers independently analyzed the transcripts via thematic analysis. Data were managed using NVivo qualitative data management software. Results: The identified themes were grouped under perceived usability and utility. Mothers valued the convenience and utility of HSMAs for remote monitoring of NNJ. They appreciated the objectivity the app readings provided compared to visual inspection. However, they perceived that the app's applicability would be restricted to severe jaundice, were concerned about its accuracy and restriction to the English language, and lacked confidence in using it. Nevertheless, they were willing to use it once its accuracy was proven and when they received adequate guidance from health care professionals. They also suggested including an action plan for the measured readings and clinical signs within the app. Mothers proposed pairing teleconsultations with HSMAs to boost their confidence and enhance adoption. Conclusions: Mothers were receptive to using HSMAs but had concerns. Multiple languages, proof of accuracy, and resources to guide users should be incorporated into the app in the next phase to increase its successful adoption. Complementing such apps with a teleconsultation service presents a plausible and pragmatic NNJ care delivery model in general practice.

A qualitative research study of primary care physicians' views of telehealth in delivering postnatal care to women.

BACKGROUND: The postpartum period is a critical time for women to optimise their physical and mental health. Primary care physicians (PCP) often manage postpartum women in the community setting after uneventful births. However, women encounter difficulties accessing care before and after their conventional 6-week physical review. Telehealth-based interventional studies have demonstrated their successful applications in several areas of postpartum care but is not widely adopted. The study aimed to explore the PCPs' views on their acceptability and perceived barriers of telehealth in delivering postpartum care to women in primary care. METHODS: Twenty-nine PCPs participated in eleven in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions for this qualitative study conducted in Singapore. The purposively sampled PCPs had varied demographic background and medical training. Two investigators independently coded the audited transcripts. Thematic content analysis was performed using the codes to identify issues in the pertaining to the perceived usefulness, ease of use and attitudes towards telehealth in postpartum care as described in the "Telehealth Acceptance Model" framework. RESULTS: Most PCPs perceived usefulness and ease of use of video consultation in delivering postpartum care. They recognised telehealth service to complement and support the current face-to-face postpartum care amidst the pandemic. However, training, leadership support, organizational infrastructure, healthcare financial policy and personal demographic profile influence their acceptance of a new care model for postnatal mothers. CONCLUSION: Addressing the barriers and strengthening the facilitators will enhance PCPs' acceptance and utilisation of the proposed hybrid (telehealth and in-person) postnatal care model for mothers.

Experiences of primary care physicians managing postpartum care: a qualitative research study.

BACKGROUND: The postpartum period is redefined as 12 weeks following childbirth. Primary care physicians (PCP) often manage postpartum women in the community after uneventful childbirths. Postpartum care significantly impacts on the maternal and neonatal physical and mental health. However, evidence has revealed unmet needs in postpartum maternal care. AIM: The study aimed to explore the experiences of PCPs in managing postpartum mothers. METHODS: Four focus group discussions and eleven in-depth interviews with twenty-nine PCPs were conducted in this qualitative research study in urban Singapore. PCPs of both gender and variable postgraduate training background were purposively enrolled. Audited transcripts were independently coded by two investigators. Thematic content analysis was performed using the codes to identify issues in the "clinician", "mother", "postpartum care" and "healthcare system & policy" domains stipulated in "The Generalists' Wheel of Knowledge, Understanding and Inquiry" framework. FINDINGS: PCPs' personal attributes such as gender and knowledge influenced their postpartum care delivery. Prior training, child caring experience and access to resource materials contributed to their information mastery of postpartum care. Their professional relationship with local multi-ethic and multi-lingual Asian mothers was impacted by their mutual communication, language compatibility and understanding of local confinement practices. Consultation time constraint, awareness of community postnatal services and inadequate handover of care from the specialists hindered PCPs in the healthcare system. DISCUSSION: Personal, maternal and healthcare system barriers currently prevent PCPs from delivering optimal postpartum care. CONCLUSION: Interventions to overcome the barriers to improve postpartum care will likely be multi-faceted across domains discussed.