Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors on Utilizing Mobile Health Technology for TB in Indonesia: A Qualitative Pilot Study

Tuberculosis (TB) infections remain a global health burden with a high incidence rate in South-East Asia, including Indonesia. TB control strategy is founded on early case detection and complete treatment to minimize transmission and prevent the emergence of drug resistance. However, many patients face challenges to comply with daily medication, causing many to adhere inconsistently or stop prematurely. Technological solutions could enhance adherence to treatment and support national screening and follow-up policies. These include telephone video communication, enabling health professionals to watch patients take their medication, address patients' concerns, and provide advice and support. This manuscript describes the outcome of a qualitative pilot study, based on a series of focus group discussions to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, on the potential utilization of mobile technology for health purposes with a particular focus on TB treatment follow-up. The findings illustrate that general knowledge of mobile health technologies, of their legal framework of operations, and of their exact potential within the healthcare system is incomplete or poor. The novel findings are as follows: (a) the willingness of participants to learn about these technologies, (b) the open and welcoming attitude toward receiving such information even within frontline community settings, and (c) the willingness to back a government-supported, healthcare-driven set of such initiatives. Potential implementation barriers have also been highlighted. This study is an important first step toward understanding the attitudes and behaviors on utilizing mobile health technology for TB in Indonesia.