Mobile Health Platforms for Medication Adherence among Oncology Patients in Rural Populations

Medication adherence remains a critical determinant of therapeutic outcomes in oncology care, particularly among patients residing in rural areas who often face systemic barriers to consistent treatment access. This review explores the emerging role of mobile health (mHealth) platforms in improving medication adherence among oncology patients in rural populations. The paper synthesizes current evidence on the effectiveness, scalability, and usability of mHealth interventions—ranging from SMS reminders and mobile apps to telehealth-integrated treatment monitoring systems—in addressing logistical, socioeconomic, and informational challenges. Emphasis is placed on technology-enabled patient engagement strategies that support self-management, reduce travel burdens, and provide timely support for adverse drug reactions. Furthermore, the review examines behavioral, demographic, and infrastructural factors influencing the adoption of mHealth tools in underserved settings, highlighting disparities in digital health literacy, smartphone access, and broadband coverage. Key frameworks such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Health Belief Model (HBM) are utilized to interpret user acceptance and sustained engagement with digital platforms. Finally, the paper discusses policy implications and offers recommendations for developing culturally responsive, patient-centered mHealth interventions tailored to the needs of rural oncology populations. By consolidating multidisciplinary insights, this review underscores the potential of mHealth to bridge oncology care gaps and promote equity in cancer treatment adherence.