App for independence: A feasibility randomized controlled trial of a digital health tool for schizophrenia spectrum disorders

Background: Given the widespread adoption of smartphone technologies, digital health strategies to address schizophrenia spectrum disorders hold considerable promise. However, there are relatively few trials of digital health interventions for schizophrenia. The App for Independence (A4i) is a multi-function digital platform co-designed by people with schizophrenia, their families, and service providers.

Hypothesis: This trial was designed to assess the feasibility of A4i.

Study design: The study was a single-blinded randomized trial. This trial was undertaken to generate feasibility data that might inform the design and utility of future effectiveness and implementation trials. The study took place in Toronto, Canada, with 91 participants randomized to 6 months of A4i use or treatment as usual. Feasibility metrics included recruitment, engagement and retention targets, qualitative and satisfaction data, and a secondary assessment of clinical, quality of life, and treatment adherence outcomes.

Study results: The COVID-19 pandemic markedly affected the recruitment of both primary participants and clinicians. Feasibility outcomes were difficult to interpret, though they presented some useful information for future trials. Engagement objectives were not achieved. However, A4i-user satisfaction ratings and qualitative feedback were positive, and technology engagement was fairly positive despite implementation challenges.

Conclusions: This study adds to emerging discourse regarding how technologies such as A4i are implemented. It suggests that digital technologies are of interest and are received positively by severe mental illness populations, though more work is needed to understand how they are implemented and the optimal methods for researching them.