The mobile health consumer is today one of the most important health benefits platforms. Founded in 2012, their mission is to simplify the healthcare system and empower people to make informed decisions about their health. They are one reason forward-thinking companies partner with them. Here's how you can use mHealth to improve your health.
Using mHealth is a way to manage chronic diseases
It is becoming more common to use mobile devices for chronic disease management. Mobile health applications can provide real-time insight and data to assist health care professionals in making decisions regarding patients’ health. These apps are becoming more common and can be used to increase patient awareness, monitor health parameters, and encourage self-management. These apps include apps for monitoring diet and exercise, as well as apps that help you quit smoking.
A recent systematic review found that mHealth interventions can have a positive effect on chronic diseases. There were four RCTs that examined the effectiveness mHealth interventions in treating chronic pain and diabetes. Although the results were mixed, the authors noted that mHealth apps can improve the patient-provider relationship, increase patient education, and improve feedback on patient progress.
Utilizing the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted of RCTs in which mHealth interventions were included in adult care. Our research question was developed using the PICOS approach (participants. compar., outcomes. and study design). We used the PICOS approach to map the variables we wanted and then we developed our research questions.
When evaluating the effectiveness of mHealth interventions for chronic disease management, there are many important factors to be aware of. For example, we should consider the type of mHealth applications used and the training methods used. For instance, mHealth applications that use pre-set feedback can be useful for patients with chronic pain and for those with asthma. It is also important to think about the time frame for follow-ups.
mHealth to replace in-person doctor visits
Telemedicine, also called mHealth or telemedicine, is a growing method of health care delivery. It utilizes the power of the Internet and mobile devices to provide remote patient services, while also reducing costs and making it more accessible. Currently, nearly eighty percent of U.S. adults own a smartphone, and a similar percentage of adults globally do. This new technology could be a useful addition to the healthcare system, particularly for those in low-income communities.
While mHealth is more convenient than in-person visits, there are many limitations. One, telemedicine encounters last less than in-person visits. Telemedicine encounters last no more than a minute. However, the study doesn't provide any information on why encounters last less time than a minute. The study does not consider the impact mHealth has on hospitalization rates.
In addition, telemedicine poses many malpractice risks. For instance, doctors can't fully assess the severity of a patient's condition if they can't see them face-to-face. A video or image can't be used to determine if a patient is healed.
Telemedicine is also a viable alternative if in-person health care is not available in the area. Rural residents living in rural areas that don't have doctors can use mHealth or telecommedicine.