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. 2015 Jul 16:21:201.
doi: 10.11604/pamj.2015.21.201.6844. eCollection 2015.

Designing text-messaging (SMS) in HIV programs: ethics-framed recommendations from the field

Guillermo Martínez Pérez  1 , Bella Hwang  2 , Helen Bygrave  3 , Emilie Venables  4
Affiliations

Designing text-messaging (SMS) in HIV programs: ethics-framed recommendations from the field

Guillermo Martínez Pérez et al. Pan Afr Med J. .

Abstract

Text messages (SMS) are being increasingly integrated into HIV programs across Southern Africa to improve patient adherence, linkage to care and provide psycho-social support. Careful attention needs to be paid to the design of SMS-based interventions for clients of HIV-care services to ensure that any potential harm, such as unwanted disclosure of HIV status, is minimized. In this article we propose a set of best practice recommendations to ensure that any SMS-based intervention considers ethical principles to safeguard safety, autonomy and confidentiality of its targeted HIV-positive beneficiaries. This analysis draws from our operational experience in Southern Africa in the design and conduct of mHealth interventions in the frame of HIV projects. The recommendations, framed in the context of the Belmont Report's three ethical pillars, may contribute to more safely operationalize any SMS service integrated into an HIV program if adopted by mHealth planners and implementers. We encourage actors to report on the ethical and methodological pathways followed when conducting SMS-based innovations to improve the wellbeing and quality provision of HIV-care for their targeted clients.

Keywords: Ethics; HIV; Southern Africa; mHealth; medical; text messaging.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
SMS potential adverse effects are of a different nature. Basic set of questions for planners to identify risks and harms
Figure 2
Figure 2
Framework for developing SMS messaging content
Figure 3
Figure 3
How Text Messages (SMS) should be (and should not be)
Figure 4
Figure 4
Basic tips to the clients to prevent potential harms
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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