Thesis abstract:

«p»Musculoskeletal disorders, especially low back pain (LBP), prevails as the leading cause of years lived with disability (YLDs) worldwide for nearly three decades, constituting a major global health priority. In addition to overloading healthcare systems, LBP imposes substantial economic burden at both individual and societal levels due to healthcare use and productivity loss. Despite the slight decrease in the prevalence of LBP over the last thirty years, the burden associated with this condition continues to expand in face of a growing and aging population, a scenario that is further exacerbated by the limited availability of healthcare resources. Altogether, these factors prefigure an escalating public health challenge. Alongside, timely access to first-line, evidence-based healthcare remains a bottleneck to universal health coverage in both high- and low-income countries, particularly when considering people residing in remote areas. In this context, digital health has emerged as a promising strategy to overcome barriers to healthcare access and the underlying health loss. The strategic use of digital health solutions may enhance the provision of comprehensive care and may potentially improve the efficiency, affordability and cost-effectiveness of healthcare systems. This thesis will be developed within the scope of digital health technologies, exploring its challenges, perspectives and opportunities towards tackling LBP. The results from this research will help to design novel, evidence-based interventions for LBP patients and to inform health care decision making. Additionally, it will contribute to design and implement future public health policies in Australia and beyond, in light of the scientific evidence of clinical and economic effectiveness.«/p»