Feasibility and Usability of Mobile Applications for Monitoring Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Treatment in Colombia

An effectiveness-implementation sequential explanatory hybrid design type 2 using mixed methods was performed in 2020 and 2021 in two study sites: Pueblo Rico, Risaralda, and Rovira, Tolima. A quasi-experimental study with historical control (standard of care) was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the community-based intervention supported by mHealth, in terms of monitoring of treatment of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis. The effectiveness indicators i. number of follow-up contacts, ii. Adherence to treatment, iii. adverse drug reactions, and iv. the therapeutic response were compared between the intervention and control groups.

After the effectiveness evaluation was completed, three outcomes were assessed to inform the implementation of the community-based use of the app: acceptability, usability, and fidelity.

Inclusion criteria

Patients followed by CHL with the app (effectiveness evaluation):

• Diagnosis confirmed by microscopy of tissue smear or culture
• Any age and gender
• Medical prescription for antileishmanial treatment
• Approved and signed informed consent
• Availability of CHL to monitor treatment of the patients in the community

Inclusion criteria

patients who received the standard of care (effectiveness evaluation):

• Clinical records of patients with confirmed CL at most two years prior to the start of this study
• Any age and gender
• Received antileishmanial treatment based on national guidelines

Inclusion criteria

for participants of implementation evaluation (Community Health Leaders)

• Residents of the rural areas of study sites
• Voluntary participation in the monitoring of patients using the mobile app