What’s killing us? The number one cause of death and disability globally are chronic diseases. Patients need personalised care, yet on the scale demanded by our exploding population, is this possible? mHealth has the potential to target chronic patients, giving them customised tools and modifying behaviour in an engaging way.
WellDoc Inc. tested a mobile app and mobile site on 163 diabetes patients, with real results.
Dr. Anand Iyer from WellDoc Inc. discusses how his company has made an impact on the management of chronic diseases using mobile technology.
How it works
Patients enter blood glucose levels etc. into their phones and get real-time responses from a virtual patient coach. They get instant and long-term feedback, tips on diet, exercise and lifestyle. All underpinned by clinical guidelines and behavioural science. Clinicians are also supplied with progress reports for accurate patient monitoring.
The evidence is clear
There was a 1.9% decline in average glycated haemoglobin (A1c, that’s the key measure for diabetes control) against a group using traditional care (0.7%). What’s more, the US Food and Drug Administration deems a new drug able to reduce A1c by 0.5% as clinically significant.
It is now cleared for use and can be integrated into most mobiles and ehealth records.
US Food and Drug Administration deems a new drug able to reduce A1c by 0.5% as clinically significant.
$218 billion is spent on diabetes every year in the US, and mHealth could mean savings of as much as $10,000 per patient. It’s not just about lower healthcare charges and increased productivity. Patients can take control of their condition and learn to make better decisions to improve their lives.
The potential for chronic diseases is vast. Diabetes, obesity and hypertension are just waiting for a mobile revolution.