Implementing mobile health applications in disaster zones: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Background: Mobile health (mHealth) applications have emerged as powerful tools in healthcare delivery, particularly in disaster zones where infrastructure is compromised and conventional health systems are disrupted. Their ability to provide remote access, real-time communication and data-driven decision support makes them especially valuable in resource-constrained settings.
Objectives: This systematic review analyses the current landscape of mHealth applications deployed in disaster settings, focusing on their categories, implementation challenges, governance frameworks and effectiveness in supporting victims and healthcare providers.
Method: Peer-reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2025 were systematically screened and analysed according to application type, operational outcomes, governance mechanisms and contextual challenges. Findings were synthesised to identify patterns of effectiveness, barriers to implementation and governance gaps.
Results: Four main categories of mHealth tools were identified: emergency medical services, health surveillance systems, resource coordination platforms and telemedicine solutions. Evidence indicates that these applications enhance disaster response by improving triage, outbreak monitoring, supply coordination and remote consultation. Persistent challenges include poor connectivity, limited interoperability, the absence of standardised protocols, weak governance and sustainability issues.
Conclusion: mHealth applications show considerable potential to strengthen healthcare delivery in disaster zones but require robust governance and sustainable implementation strategies to realise this potential.
Contribution: The review contributes to the growing evidence on digital health in humanitarian crises and proposes a conceptual governance framework to guide policymakers, healthcare providers and developers in optimising mHealth use in disaster management.