Objective To estimate the proportion of Chongqing TB patients who have access to mobile phones, to describe the utilization practice of those mobile phones, and to learn the general information of those TB patients, so as to provide feasibility basis for further intervention of SMS reminder systems. Methods The stratified cluster sampling method was used and four TB high-risk districts were selected. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to interview the TB patients and suspects who had come to their local TB dispensaries during the past two months. The quantitative data was double entered using EpiData 3.1. The association of mobile phone utilization parameters with key variables was determined using chi-square test and logistic regression analyses. The qualitative data was managed, coded and retrieved using MAXQDA, and analyzed using thematic framework approach. Results Of the patients interviewed by quantitative research, the mobile phone ownership rate was 91.1%; 914 cases (80.4%) of the respondents were able to receive text messages; and most people (81%) held favorable opinions on SMS reminders. The main factors related to mobile phone ownerships and receiving SMS were age, occupation, education level, and place of residence. The male patients, in the age group of 19-49 years old, with education level of high school or higher were more likely to have access to mobile phones. The results from qualitative interview were similar. Conclusion Considering the high access to mobile phones of patients interviewed and patients’ views on SMS reminders, it is feasible to conduct a pilot intervention using SMS as a strategy to improve adherence to TB treatment in Chongqing.
