What strategies are encouraged for mHealth research to enhance technology-enabled programs?

The strategy of reusing existing tools and mitigating waste is strongly encouraged in mHealth research for several reasons. First, it promotes sustainability by maximizing the value and utility of resources that are already available. By building on established technologies and frameworks, researchers can save time and money that would otherwise be spent on developing new, redundant solutions. This practice also allows for the integration of proven methodologies and tools, which can enhance the overall effectiveness of technology-enabled health programs.

Moreover, reusing existing tools can facilitate wider access to mHealth solutions, particularly in low-resource settings where budget constraints are a significant barrier to innovation. Adopting a reuse approach can ensure that effective tools reach a broader audience and can be adapted for various health challenges, ultimately driving more impactful health outcomes.

Additionally, mitigating waste aligns with the principles of innovation and efficiency in health care. It encourages a mindset of improvement and optimization rather than constant new acquisition, which is vital in the field of health informatics, where financial and environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important.

In contrast, purchasing new technologies frequently may lead to unnecessary expenditures and can contribute to resource depletion, while focusing solely on quantitative research may overlook essential qualitative insights necessary for comprehensive evaluation. Developing independent infrastructures might isolate programs and lead to duplication of efforts rather