Development of a Mobile-Based Personal Health Record for Pediatric Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Management: Protocol for a Study Based on Action Research Design.

backgroundAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most widespread neurobehavioral problems during childhood. A child's personal health record (PHR) plays an important role in the controlled routine monitoring of ADHD symptom improvement. Along with the advantages, the convenience offered by mobile technology, and the ubiquity of smartphones in contemporary society, there is a compelling need for PHR to be available in the form of a mobile app.

objectiveThis study aims to identify stakeholder needs, followed by designing, developing, testing, and evaluating a mobile-based PHR in the context of pediatric ADHD management.

methodsThis study will adopt an action research design structured into 4 stages: diagnosing, planning, taking, and evaluating action. Stakeholders, including parents, pediatricians, occupational therapists, clinical psychologists, and teachers, will participate actively. In stage 1, stakeholder requirements for the mobile-based PHR will be explored through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and document reviews. Thematic analysis will be used to identify key needs and challenges. In stage 2, a systematic literature review will be conducted to enhance user requirements analysis by synthesizing insights from existing mobile apps for pediatric ADHD management. A mobile-based PHR prototype will be designed and developed based on user requirements enhanced with systematic review results. In stage 3, the prototype will undergo a 6-week trial with participants to evaluate its functionality and address any identified issues. In stage 4, both quantitative and qualitative methods will be used to assess the app's usability and quality. The System Usability Scale (SUS) and the User Version of the Mobile App Rating Scale (uMARS) will be used for quantitative evaluation, while interviews and FGDs will be conducted for qualitative evaluation.

resultsThis study commenced in October 2024. As of December 2024, 13 participants (n=5, 38.5%, parents; n=2, 15.4%, pediatricians; n=2, 15.4%, occupational therapists; n=2, 15.4%, clinical psychologists; and n=2, 15.4%, teachers) have been enrolled, meeting the minimum participant requirements for stage 1. Stage 1 was completed at the end of 2024, with stage 2 expected to be completed by September 2025, stage 3 by December 2025, and stage 4 by February 2026. The findings from each stage will inform iterative refinements to the mobile-based PHR. The final results, including usability and quality assessments, are anticipated for publication by the middle of 2026.

conclusionsThis study protocol outlines a pivotal initiative to enhance the management of pediatric ADHD. By using an action research methodology and actively engaging stakeholders, the study aims to contribute significantly to the field. The iterative cycles of the research seek to develop a mobile-based PHR that is not only user friendly but also effective and uniquely attuned to the diverse needs of those involved in pediatric ADHD care. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/60216.