Identifying Credible Mobile Health Apps for Pediatric Populations during a Pandemic and beyond

What is it about?

This commentary reviewed the literature to develop a framework for pediatric psychologists to utilize when recommending mobile health applications (mHealth apps) for youth during the pandemic. Within the framework, it is suggested for psychologists to use a three-pronged approach: 1) narrow the presenting problem, user of the application, and list of possible treatment options, 2) explore the theory and evidence supporting the efficacy of the app, privacy policies of the app, and multiple indices of the user experience, and 3) contextualize all information to determine whether the app is appropriate for use with the specific user/patient. In the commentary, the authors also provide an illustrative case example of how pediatric psychologists may use this approach.

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Why is it important?

The pandemic has substantially shifted psychological care to be delivered via digital platforms, including mHealth apps. Despite the large number of mHealth apps that are available and demonstrate a level of efficacy, there are limited data to support their use and few are FDA regulated. Moreover, while there are existing frameworks psychologists can utilize when selecting digital health interventions for adult health populations, pediatric psychologists do not yet have an evidence-based framework to follow. Through using the framework outlined in the commentary, pediatric psychologists can make a quick, yet detailed approach in determining whether a mHealth app can be effective for their patients.