NOVEL SMART PHONE APPLICATION FOR PROMOTING ADHERENCE TO ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY (ART) IN INDIAN SETTING

INTRODUCTION:  The availability of free antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV infection into a chronic manageable disease. However, poor adherence still remains a major challenge. With improved affordability and connectivity, mobile phone based adherence promoting intervention can reach geographically remote and culturally diverse group population. The objective of this study was to develop a user friendly mobile application (app) for the people living with HIV and AIDS (PLHIV) in Indian setting. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS:  An Android OS based smart phone app was developed following peer review and feedback received from patients. It permit user to set reminders for clinic visit and timely consumption of antiretroviral therapy. The function includes adherence calculator, track your investigations, HIV awareness tool etc. CONCLUSION:  This free to download novel smart phone app can serve as an important "make in India" digital health initiative to reach remotely located PLHIV and supplement ART management workforce.