NETWORKED HEALTH APPLICATION: VALIDATION OF AN APP FOR MONITORING HYPERTENSIVE AND DIABETIC PATIENTS IN AN ENDEMIC AREA OF MARANHÃO, BRAZIL

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus are among the main chronic conditions in Brazil and increase vulnerability to endemic diseases. Mobile technologies have proven to be strategic in monitoring these patients; however, validated applications for this context remain scarce. OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a mobile application for monitoring complications in hypertensive and diabetic patients living in endemic areas. METHODS: A methodological study with a mixed-methods approach, guided by the Incremental Software Development Model. Content validation was performed by experts using the Content Validity Index for Educational Software (IVCES) and the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM), while usability was evaluated by the target population using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Statistical analysis included frequencies, mean, standard deviation, Cronbach’s alpha, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS: The application reached Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7. IVCES showed absolute agreement ranging from 94.4% to 100% (mean 98.9%). SAM classified the material as superior (88.8%). Reliability and agreement among judges were high (α = 0.83; ICC = 0.81). Usability, measured by SUS, showed a mean score of 99.75, indicating an “Excellent” level.  CONCLUSION: The application demonstrated high content validity and excellent usability, establishing itself as an innovative technology for clinical monitoring in endemic contexts. Its implementation may strengthen health surveillance, improve quality of care, and support clinical decision-making in vulnerable populations.