Identification and mapping of mHealth interventions applied in palliative care in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review protocol

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this scoping review is to identify the currently available mHealth interventions for palliative care and factors influencing their use in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Introduction: Although palliative care is essential for improving quality of life, its use in SSA remains low. mHealth (an interaction with a mobile device) interventions could enhance and promote palliative care in the region. Integration of mHealth into palliative care has been observed across Europe and the USA to support pain management and improve communication between health professionals and patients; however, there is little evidence on its use in low- and middle income countries. Eligibility criteria: Eligible studies will involve key stakeholders in palliative care, such as patients with life-limiting illnesses (eg, cancer), health professionals, community volunteer workers, and community leaders. Studies reporting evidence on mHealth in the design, implementation, or evaluation of palliative care services in any country in SSA will be considered. Methods: The review will follow JBI methodology for scoping reviews and will be reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The following sources will be searched for published and unpublished literature: CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PubMed (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. Study screening and selection will be conducted independently by 2 reviewers. Data will be extracted using a modified JBI data charting form, and will be presented in tabular format and narrative summary.