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Objectives: To expand on previous survey-based research that provided a basic understanding of dietitian perspectives on app use by exploring factors that are influencing dietitian decision-making regarding the use and recommendation of apps with individual clients.
Methods: 20–60-minute semi-structured interviews conducted in-person, over the phone, or via videoconferencing from November 2019 to July 2020 with U.S. dietitians (n = 20) working in outpatient practice. Interview audio transcribed verbatim. Qualitative thematic analysis of interview transcripts. The creation of an audit trail, memos, and peer debriefing were used to enhance trustworthiness.
Results: Years in practice ranged from 2–42. Weight management and diabetes were most common counseling topics. Several factors that influence dietitian decision-making appear to limit a dietitians’ optimal use of apps, including current payment structure, limited app usability, and a dietitian’s familiarity with available apps. Current payment structures typically don’t compensate dietitians for time spent outside of visits to review app data or communicate/provide feedback to clients via the app. Participants described having difficulty finding apps for non-English speaking clients, clients with low literacy, and clients with complex dietary restrictions. A dietitian’s familiarity with available apps also influenced if they were able to find apps that included desired features.
Conclusions: Despite noting potential benefits of app use, dietitians are not utilizing apps as frequently as desired due to current payment structures, app feature and usability limitations, and the overabundance of apps without sufficient time or guidance for assessing available apps. Future research and policies to address these limitations could greatly improve the efficacy and use of apps in dietetics.
Funding Sources: None
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