The effectiveness and acceptability of digital health interventions as tools to promote physical activity in primary care: an update scoping review.

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) promotion in primary healthcare is an effective way of addressing population-based physical inactivity. Advancements in technology could help overcome barriers to promoting PA. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of technology (digital health) for PA promotion in primary healthcare, including effectiveness and acceptability, from research published between January 2020 and December 2023.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted across five databases (Cochrane library, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed and WebofScience). Search terms focused on three components: PA counselling, technology and primary healthcare. Articles from 01/01/2020 to 05/12/2023 were included. Paediatric populations and populations with diseases requiring specialist care were excluded.

Results: Of 2717 studies identified during database searches, twenty-nine were included in the review. Mobile-phone applications were the preferred method of implementation (n = 12, 52%), with most interventions aiding in assessment of PA levels (n = 16, 70%) and/or assisting in addressing it (via education, monitoring or support) (n = 22, 96%). Findings revealed mixed evidence on the effectiveness of digital health interventions in increasing PA but reported widespread acceptability of digital health interventions. Qualitative studies revealed three main themes desired by stakeholders: (1) ease of use, (2) complements pre-existing primary healthcare provision and (3) patient-centred.

Conclusion: Future research should focus on developing standardised approaches for assessing digital health interventions, exploring the impact on prescribing behaviours and addressing the desired features highlighted by stakeholders. Integration of technology in healthcare, including PA promotion, holds promise for enhancing access and facilitating widespread implementation.