Interactive voice response (IVR) is a novel phone-based platform that can be used to deliver health behaviour interventions.

The researchers analysed 15 randomised controlled trials to review the effectiveness of IVR interventions designed to promote health behaviours, such as medication adherence, physical activity, alcohol and diet. The authors conducted additional analysis to identify which Behaviour Change Techniques used in the interventions were associated with intervention effectiveness.

The study suggests that IVR-based interventions appear promising in changing specific health behaviours, such as medication adherence and physical activity. Also, interventions providing information about the health consequences of taking or not taking medication were positively associated with larger intervention effects. The findings of this review can inform the development of future IVR interventions targeting specific health behaviours.

More information

Tsoli S, Sutton S, Kassavou A. Interactive voice response interventions targeting behaviour change: a systematic literature review with meta-analysis and meta-regression BMJ Open 2018;8:e018974. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018974

Image credit: Dr Jon Ferdinand for the Primary Care Unit