Research suggests many adolescents report a preference to engage with healthcare via SMS and online communication. Within a trial aiming to increase adolescents's engagement with a healthy lifestyles mobile app (Health4Life), we aimed to implement a novel model for the provision of brief support (health coaching intervention) to adolescents. This intervention provides adolescents with the option of accessing free fortnightly check-ins with a health coach, completed over the phone, SMS, or email, depending on their preference. This research will examine the feasibility and efficacy of these three engagement methods in encouraging adolescents to utilise the Health4Life app. It is predicted most adolescents will access health coach ‚ check-ins via SMS or email.
Recruitment is ongoing with participants aged 13-17, living in Australia with smartphone access. Participants allocated to the health coach condition are offered an introductory phone call with a research team member. At fortnightly intervals over 3 months, participants are sent an SMS informing them a health coach is available, asking them to nominate their preferred communication method. Clinical notes completed by the Health Coach record whether participants accept the introductory call offer and fortnightly check-ins, the contact method and check-in content.
Initial results show 46% of participants have completed an introductory call with a health coach, 23% have opted for a subsequent fortnightly phone check-in, and 8% have opted for a subsequent SMS check-in.
It is anticipated the insights gained from the uptake and engagement with this intervention will provide guidance on how best to engage adolescents in eHealth.