Patients' experiences of mobile health tools for chronic heart failure self-management: a qualitative meta-synthesis
Abstract
Objective: To systematically synthesise qualitative evidence on the experiences of chronic heart failure (CHF) patients using mobile health (mHealth) tools for self-management and to identify factors influencing their acceptance and adherence, thereby informing the development of more patient-centred solutions.
Design: Qualitative meta-synthesis.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using terms related to mHealth, heart failure, self-management and qualitative research. Study quality was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute criteria for qualitative studies, and data were synthesised using thematic synthesis. The search covered the period from database inception to July 2025.
Data sources: The following eight electronic databases were searched: PubMed, Ovid, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wangfang and VIP RESULTS: A total of 18 studies were included, yielding two integrated themes: factors influencing the use of mHealth tools and recommendations for their development.
Conclusions: Experiences of patients with CHF using mHealth underscore the need for a patient-centred paradigm in mHealth design. Codesigning tools based on patients' real-world needs and preferences is crucial to promote sustained engagement and effective self-management. Healthcare professionals and developers should prioritise usability, personalisation and continuous support to enhance acceptance.
Prospero registration number: CRD420-25638367.
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