A mobile application to support self-management among people with chronic kidney disease in Vietnam: Study protocol for a codesign-based intervention

Abstract

ackground: In Vietnam, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming a major problem with an estimated six million people having the disease due to the rise in diabetes and hypertension. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Health took swift action to limit the referral of people with chronic diseases to city-based healthcare services to protect this highly vulnerable group. Thus, providing a mobile support program for kidney health is extremely important to provide alternative healthcare and support access. Methods/ design:The Smart Kidney Health Support program is a telehealth program aiming to provide information/ updated guidelines and support for CKD, treatments, dietary, exercises, and mental wellness for people with CKD. This Smart Kidney program will be designed and developed as a mobile application. The program development consists of two phases: Phase 1 is the development of a mobile app tool using codesign methods; Phase 2 is to pilot this mobile-based program in which the feasibility and acceptability of the program will be evaluated. Conclusion:The expected outcome of this project is to have a comprehensive, hands-on, and innovative mobile health support program to support and assist people with CKD in Vietnam to better self-manage their disease, treatments, and lifestyle.