  Evidence suggests that medication adherence applications (apps) are one of
the most effective methods to remind patients to take medication on time.
Reminders via apps are overwhelming today, consumers discard using them after a
brief period of initial usage, eventually becoming unfavourable towards them
and not using them at all. This study aims to qualitatively determine the key
features and design of medication reminder apps that facilitate or disrupt
usage from the users perceptive. Three focus groups were conducted with
participants aged between 15 and 65+ (N= 12). The participants evaluated a
smart medication reminder prototype, then sketched and discussed their thoughts
and perceptions within the group. Participants identified, 1) Multi-channel
reminders, 2) Medication intake acknowledgement for reporting and 3) Seamless
addition of medications and associated reminders as important elements.
Understanding consumers needs and concerns will inform the future development
of medication reminder apps that are acceptable and valuable to consumers.
