Szlyk H, Paraboschi L, Meigs L, et al. Comparing Pregnant and Postpartum Client and Provider Feedback on a Digital Health Intervention for Substance Use Recovery: User-Centered Design Approach. JMIR Form Res.2026;10:e86255. doi:10.2196/86255
This study explored how pregnant and postpartum people and health care providers viewed uMAT-R, a mobile health app designed to support recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) during pregnancy and after childbirth. The study aimed to assess the app’s usability and acceptability, and to identify areas for improvement as part of a larger ongoing intervention. Additional aims included comparing clients’ (patients’) and providers’ perspectives to better understand shared needs and barriers to care. Clients completed a baseline survey and provided feedback after one week of using the uMAT-R, as requested through open-ended questions. Eleven of the 16 clients who logged into the app completed all 31 usability questions, while eight additional clients who did not use the app answered questions about barriers to app use. Sixteen health care providers completed a survey, and 13 also participated in follow-up interviews. Both clients and providers responded positively to the app’s interactive and personalized features. They particularly valued the in-app messaging system, which connected users with an e-coach, as well as the sober day tracker, daily assessments, educational content, and motivational messages. Both groups also suggested making information easier to search and improving navigation. Clients recommended adding more parenting content and the ability to communicate with peers, while providers valued the app’s treatment information and personalized support features. Providers identified major barriers to treatment, including lack of transportation and motivation (12 of 13 providers each), lack of childcare and stigma (11 of 13 each), relapse (10 of 13), and fear of being reported to social services (9 of 13). The findings contribute to the growing body of evidence that involving both clients and providers in the development of mobile health tools can enhance their relevance and usability. The study also highlights the value of provider input, particularly as nearly half of the participating providers had personal experience with recovery from SUD. Together, these perspectives can help refine mobile health interventions to better support recovery during pregnancy and the postpartum period.