Perspectives of cancer patients and palliative care health professionals regarding the content and user preferences for a text message-based intervention in palliative care in Western Uganda:

John Bosco Ndinawe; Jerome  Kabakyenga; Edgar Mulogo; Elizabeth Namukwaya; Francescah  Nagujja

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2261

Authors

John Bosco Ndinawe Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda.
Jerome Kabakyenga Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda.
Edgar Mugema Mulogo Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda.
Elizabeth Namukwaya College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
Francescah Nagujja Clinical Department, Hospice Africa Uganda

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2261

Keywords:

Perspectives, cancer patients, health professionals, palliative care, reminder text-messages, Western Uganda

Abstract

Introduction:

This study explores the perspectives of cancer patients and palliative care health professionals regarding the design of a text message-based intervention in Western Uganda. Recognizing the critical role of palliative care in improving quality of life amidst resource constraints, the research investigates user preferences for message content, format, tone, frequency, language, and additional features.

Objective:

To examine the perspectives of cancer patients and health professionals about the use reminder text-message-based intervention in a palliative care setting in Western Uganda.

Methodology:

Employing a qualitative, phenomenological approach, focus group discussions with patients and healthcare providers at Mobile Hospice Mbarara and Little Hospice Hoima elicited nuanced insights aligned with the Health Belief Model.

Results:

Key findings highlight the importance of personalized, culturally sensitive messages that encompass medication adherence guidance, appointment reminders, emotional support, and health education. Participants favored concise, clear language with a caring tone, delivered weekly during mid-morning hours, and in local languages like Runyankore and English. Emphasis was placed on including warning signs, motivational content, and a contact mechanism for feedback. Both patients and professionals underscored the need for messages to foster trust, self-efficacy, and active health management. Integrating these preferences can enhance engagement, adherence, and psychosocial well-being among patients.

Conclusion:

The findings provide practical guidance for developing culturally appropriate mHealth interventions such as reminder text messages tailored to resource-limited settings, ultimately aiming to improve palliative care delivery and patient outcomes in Western Uganda.

Recommendation:

Further research should assess the effect and effectiveness of reminder text messages on the quality of life of cancer patients receiving palliative care in Western Uganda.

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