How does mHealth influence consulting practice between health professionals and individuals with low back pain? A qualitative study from the perspective of health professionals

Purpose:This study explored how health professionals experience in what way a digital self-monitoring solution influences their consulting practice targeting individuals with low back pain. Material and Methods: This was a qualitative study adopting a constructivist grounded theory approach. Nineteen health professionals participated in the pilot test of the digital self-monitoring solution BackTrace. Data were collected cross-sectionally and consisted of: (a) audio recordings from focus groups with health professionals, (b) field notes from participant observation of online meetings with health professionals, (c) field notes from participant observations of consultations between health professionals and individuals with low back pain and (d) audio recordings from workshops with health professionals. Results: Two main themes and one sub-theme were identified, describing how BackTrace enabled more focused consulting practices, supported patient-self management and improved the relationship between individuals with low back pain and health professionals. Barriers were identified describing how the implementation of digital health solutions required a change in workflow, resources and culture - as well as management support. Conclusions: Findings indicated a need for a change at the system level, including a changed view of digitisation in healthcare systems containing a more supporting approach. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Low back pain is a leading cause of disability which not only impacts physically but restricts quality of life.This study shows how health professionals experience in what way digital self-monitoring solutions influence their consulting practices targeting individuals with low back pain.A digital self-monitoring solution may contribute to a more focused consulting practice and improve the quality of the relationship between individuals with low back pain and health professionals but require changes at a system level.A change in workflow and culture is recommended if digital health is to be a success.