Technology preferences to enhance HIV and HCV care among patients with substance use disorders

We examined technology use patterns (e.g., mobile phone and computer ownership, text messaging, internet access) and preferences for adopting health information technologies to optimize office-based treatment for substance use disorders, HIV, and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Surveys were administered to patients enrolled in inpatient detoxification program in a publicly-funded tertiary referral center. Most reported mobile phone ownership (86%) and described high rates of mobile phone (3.3) and phone number (2.6) turnover in the preceding year. Internet access was reported on a daily (52%) or weekly basis (22%). Most participants were amenable to receiving text message-based informational content (i.e., medications, support groups, treatment programs) pertaining to substance use disorders (79%), HIV (50%), and HCV care (58%). Respondents reporting less than high school education and past year incarcerated elicited higher favorability in adopting smartphone apps to facilitate peer sharing of HIV-HCV related content. Results suggest high favorability for adopting health information technologies to enhance office-based treatment for substance use disorders, HIV, and HCV, particularly among vulnerable patient sub-groups.