Consumer technology may improve health outcomes
By Mary Mosquera
Friday, October 23, 2009
Consumer health information technology tools hold “significant” promise for improving outcomes across a variety of diseases and health conditions, according to research conducted for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
The study, published Oct. 22, shows that the use of consumer informatics had the strongest influence on clinical outcomes for management of mental health symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Patients used Web-based cognitive behavioral therapy, computerized stress management systems and interactive self-help stress management programs.
The technologies also contributed to self management of consumer behavior related to health conditions, most notably in outcomes that targeted smoking cessation. They encouraged communication between physician and patient and shared decision-making, the study said
Among the consumer health informatics tools examined were interactive Web sites, computer-generated tailored feedback applications, personal monitoring devices, laptops, smart phones/personal digital assistants and cell phones
“Available literature suggests that select consumer health informatics applications may effectively engage consumers, enhance traditional clinical interventions, and improve both intermediate and clinical health outcomes,” the study said.
The researchers recommended exploring the role of Web 2.0 tools, social networking and health gaming technology in health outcomes.
To arrive at their findings, the researchers at Johns Hopkins University combed through numerous reports in existing journals and databases. The research is online.
