The Perceptions towards the Effectiveness of mHealth Applications during the COVID-19 Pandemic among Saudi Healthcare Providers

[...]most providers found mHealth apps effective to enhance the quality of patient-centered care. COVID-19, Healthcare providers, Mobile health apps, mHealth, Utilization Introduction The 2030 vision of Saudi Arabia (Saudi Vision 2030) which provides a roadmap for national economic growth, global engagement, and enhanced quality of life , is encouraging the use of mobile health (mHealth) applications in the healthcare industry to improve healthcare activities. The implementation of new technology in the healthcare system is a significant way to improve healthcare services and outcomes through accessible healthcare.1 mHealth is the practice of using remote communication mobile devices to support electronic healthcare delivery.2 mHealth is now the basis for many effective applications in numerous healthcare fields including disease expectation, prevention, management, diagnostics, treatments plan, and patient education.3 A 2020 study explained that the application allows healthcare consumers to access healthcare from anywhere; it provides the means for virtual consultation with healthcare professionals.Moreover, the mHealth application could be used by patients to book appointments, view lab test results, request medication refills, and print medical reports.4 A study released in the same year highlighted that the quality of healthcare services and overall satisfaction levels can be improved by using mHealth applications. [...]this study aimed to explore the utilization rate and perceptions regarding the effectiveness of mHealth applications among Saudi healthcare providers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.