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aiaCONNECT
A Global Perspective on Life Sciences Industry News
PATIENT EDUCATION AND THE CELLPHONE APP
The health of patients is undergoing a fascinating
transformation thanks to modern technology. There are already
thousands of apps on smart phones and now the health care industry
has begun to use a new one for patient education, tracking and
monitoring.
For example, a new app on iPhone and iPad recently
launched by Vree allows patients to manage their diabetes. These
new types of apps can also help patients monitor a wide range of
health issues from weight management to multiple sclerosis. It is
extraordinary work in progress with much greater rewards in the
future. It provides learning tools and mostly quick access to key
health care information with just the right dose. Mobile phones are
already at the center of many lives especially when most do not go
anywhere without them. This has become a way of life and users have
them available around the clock to communicate with others, access
information and now to resolve personal matters such as health
issues. What makes this so attractive is that these apps are
available at the time the user needs it so it offers ease and
convenience. It can be accessed in real time so there is no need to
wait. This transformation is in the early stages.
Prevention equals a
pound of cure. There is no question that patient education can help
resolve complex medical problems to a certain degree. Patients who
have access to information become knowledgeable and have a greater
chance of impacting their health in a positive way. The new app
provides patients with the ability to monitor their own health,
provide medication reminders and help them stay on track with health
management. This can be a lifesaver in every sense of the word.
Rather than risk living in poor health, it can be empowering for
patients who can access instantaneous support to manage their
health. This is also a significant way to reduce health care
costs. Patient compliance will no longer be an issue once connected
in this virtual way. Where does this leave the patient who does not
have accessibility to these types of apps?
Clearly, there are
many advantages of new apps particularly the ones that address
health care. But many groups who can benefit the most from this
technology do not have access to such applications. One factor that
prevents accessibility is economic and another is language.
Economic reasons
prevent many from purchasing smart phones because they simply cannot
afford them. It is noteworthy to mention that primary modern
technology users account for about 29% of the U.S. market and are
mostly in the 25-34 age group. In addition to this market being
primarily English-speaking with economic means to purchase a smart
phone at $3,800 for the total cost of ownership (device, service
contract, etc.) over a two-year period, it may be unaffordable for
some groups who are consequently not connected. Once you have a
smart phone, Merck's new app, Vree costs only $1.99 to download.
Those who speak
other languages have limited accessibility to these apps due to
language barriers of the app itself and the medical providers on the
other end. Although some apps are offered in other languages, this
new app by Vree is not. There is always the Google translator that
translates literally, but does not have practical uses particularly
for delicate matters such as health. Seemingly, we have to find
other ways to make patient education, tracking and monitoring more
accessible. If the targeted patients do not speak the language, then
the tools should be translated and be made culturally relevant to
make a difference. Lack of access to this new technology should not
result in lack of access to patient education and support.
Similar to helping
the patient, these new apps help health care professionals
tremendously in being more efficient. They can closely track the
patients’ habits, medication and history and provide personalized
coaching as needed. The new apps that offer so much to the
doctor-patient relationship fall short of helping the non-English
speaking patient. Non-English speakers require different mechanisms
for communication and those without accessibility do not have a
chance.
Of course, full
accessibility can take time so how to make things accessible to all
needs to be planned now so that it can materialize in the future and
save millions of lives as well as millions of dollars. Alternately,
other methods can be employed to reduce language barriers. Global
patients require culturally sensitive services and language
appropriate communication. It would behoove the health care
industry to focus on patients who speak other languages when it
comes to the new wave of technology. If we are moving toward an
improved way of doing things, then let us make sure everyone has
access.
Many companies are
still trying to launch apps that will work with various target
populations. It is crucial for these apps to be accessible to all
markets so they can be impactful. Patients want to be proactive and
participate in their own health care management unlike earlier times
when the doctor ruled. Modern technology gives a completely new
meaning to health management and offers the cutting edge means to do
it. These new apps that offer patient-focused care and result in
engaged, proactive patients will not only save time and money, but
improve the health status of millions. They have great potential,
but through a new way of thinking with the ability to transform
health beginning with the accessibility factor. Let’s put all
patients first and not leave them behind! Maria Ugarte-Ramos ©aiaTranslations
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without written consent.