1. In this randomized controlled trial, a Spanish-language texting application significantly decreased the rate of emergency room (ER) visits among the intervention population.
2. A greater proportion of infants in the intervention group received the recommended second dose of the influenza vaccine as compared to the control group.
Evidence Rating Level: 1 (Excellent)
Study Rundown: While Latinos are the largest minority group in the United States, this population often experiences challenges in navigating the complex United States healthcare system. In this study, researchers investigated whether using a Spanish-based mobile application could support Latino individuals in gaining meaningful access to the health care system. The application, known as Salud al Día, consisted of interactive text messaging for parents throughout their child’s first year of life. The application included appointment reminders, support for obtaining medicines and completing referrals, as well as illness care monitoring and education. The intervention resulted in a significant decrease in the number of emergency room visits among those in the intervention group when compared to those in the control, and also demonstrated an increased rate of influenza vaccination among the intervention group. There was no significant difference in the number of well visit no-shows between the two groups. Although some health parameters were not affected by the use of the mobile application, these results demonstrate how use of current technology can meaningfully support patient populations who typically struggle with navigating our health care system.
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