Mobile delivery of alcohol treatment: a systematic review of the literature

Background While research supports the effectiveness of continuing care in addiction treatment, the field has historically offered little ongoing support to patients (whether outside of clinic walls during treatment or after patients complete treatment). Mobile technology may make it possible to provide both self-management help and continuing care more widely. This paper seeks to explore the following questions about mobile applications intended for patients recovering from alcohol addiction: 1. What mobile health applications to treat alcoholism exist in the peer-reviewed literature? 2. What features do these applications commonly have? 3. Are the applications integrated with in-person treatment or other aspects of the health-care system? 4. Are the applications theoretically informed and effective? 5. What are the challenges and opportunities facing mobile health for alcoholism?