The ABC of digital health: A framework for translating digital health interventions into real-world applications

2026-07-05

AI Summary

This study addresses the persistent challenge of translating research-based digital health interventions from controlled trials into sustainable real-world implementation. To bridge this gap, the authors propose an innovative ABC framework—centered on Accessibility, Buildability, and Continuity—that systematically links design decisions to scalability, automation, and user adherence. Integrating principles of user-centered design, system interoperability, and sustainable operations, the framework offers a structured, practice-oriented translational model. It provides researchers, designers, and policymakers with a shared language and practical tools to enhance the likelihood of successfully deploying and maintaining digital health interventions in everyday settings over the long term.

Abstract

Research-based digital health interventions are often presented as potential solutions for extending health care in the real world. Yet the vast majority of these interventions fails to move beyond controlled studies. Existing frameworks offer valuable guidance for intervention development and testing, but provide less concrete support for translating these evidenced intervention mechanisms into sustained real-world applications. This paper introduces the ABC framework, referring to Accessibility, Buildability, and Continuity, as a practical model for a successful translation. Accessibility captures whether diverse users can find, understand, and begin using an application with minimal friction. Buildability refers to the development of an app that supports the iteration, integration, and personalization of features. Continuity describes both sustained user engagement and the operational capacity to maintain an application over time without disproportionate increases in cost, infrastructure, or human support. Different combinations of the ABC-dimensions make an application scalable (AB), automated (BC), and adherent (AC). By linking design decisions to these features, ABC offers a shared language for researchers, designers, and policymakers seeking to build or evaluate digital health interventions that work beyond trials and are viable applications in everyday life.

Problem

• digital health
• real-world application
• intervention translation
• implementation gap
• scalability

Innovation

• ABC framework
• digital health translation
• accessibility
• buildability
• continuity