Back to the program

Systematic review of barriers, facilitators and recommendation rates of physical activity and weight management apps among primary care healthcare professionals

Dharani YERRAKALVA

Mobile health (mHealth) apps are emerging as an intervention adjunct to support healthcare professionals (HCPs) in tackling high levels of obesity and physical inactivity seen in community settings. However, it is unclear to what extent their use is being integrated into routine primary care practice.To quantify how often primary care healthcare professionals (HCPs) are recommending physical activity (PA) and weight loss apps, and to identify barriers and facilitators influencing these recommendations.We systematically searched four electronic databases for studies reporting recommendation rates of PA and weight loss apps by primary care HCPs, and barriers and facilitators to their recommendation. Study quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data and the CASP Qualitative Studies Checklist. We then undertook a meta-aggregation synthesis.Four studies were included, all reporting recommendation rates and three exploring barriers and facilitators. Recommendation rates varied widely (13–65%), with lower rates for diet-specific (14%) and exercise-specific apps (13%). Common barriers included limited knowledge of apps, uncertainty about effectiveness, and time constraints related to both recommending apps and managing follow-up. Facilitators included access to trusted app lists, targeted app education, and integration of apps into clinical systems.Primary care HCPs’ recommendation of PA and weight loss apps is highly variable. Evidence is limited by the small number and size of studies.. Enhancing HCP knowledge through training and integrating apps into routine practice may increase recommendation rates.