Development of a Digital Intervention Incorporating Habit Formation Techniques for Medication Adherence

Effective medication management is essential for preventing complications and improving quality of life in individuals with chronic diseases. A comprehensive approach is required to support patients in improving their medication adherence. This study aimed to develop and validate personalized interventions, using technological tools, designed to support medication habit formation in patients with diabetes. The development process was guided by the Medical Research Council's framework, which includes phases of development, intervention design, feasibility testing, and recommendations for future research. Twenty-five experts in healthcare and psychology were invited and participated in the evaluation. To illustrate the intervention, a 5-min video was produced, showcasing a patient's experience through screen captures of individual components. The evaluation encompassed content validation, usability and usefulness assessments, and qualitative feedback. Expert evaluation identified key challenges and effective features relevant to digital interventions in diabetes care. The intervention, MediHabit, was designed based on digital behavior change principles and habit formation theories. It begins with personalized sessions aimed at establishing a consistent medication-taking routine. Direct and indirect cues are subsequently delivered via a mobile app and a smart medication dispenser, synchronized to ensure accurate and timely medication administration. Patients can self-monitor their adherence and receive motivational messages as rewards. Expert validation emphasized the strengths of customizability and individualization, affirming the content's relevance and the app's usability. However, experts also noted the need for improved accessibility across age groups and more meaningful use of patient-generated data. The findings indicate that the MediHabit intervention holds promising potential for improving medication adherence among diabetic patients. Further research is needed to evaluate its real-world effectiveness, long-term impact, and scalability across diverse populations.