Cyberhealth serving to support individual intake of medication

Abstract

The Internet and new communication technologies are deeply affecting healthcare systems and the provision of care. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the possibility that cyberhealth, via the development of widespread easy access to wireless personal computers, tablets and smartphones, can effectively influence intake of medication and long-term medication adherence, which is a complex, difficult and dynamic behaviour to adopt and to sustain over time. Because of its novelty, the impact of cyberhealth on drug intake has not yet been well explored. Initial results have provided some evidence, but more research is needed to determine the impact of cyberhealth resources on long-term adherence and health outcomes, its user-friendliness and its adequacy in meeting e-patient needs. The purpose of such Internet-based interventions, which provide different levels of customisation, is not to take over the roles of healthcare providers; on the contrary, cyberhealth platforms should reinforce the alliance between healthcare providers and patients by filling time-gaps between visits and allowing patients to upload and/or share feedback material to be used during the visits. This shift, however, is not easily endorsed by healthcare providers, who must master new eHealth skills, but healthcare systems have a unique opportunity to invest in the Internet and to use this powerful tool to design the future of integrated care. Before this can occur, however, important issues must be addressed and resolved, for example ethical considerations, the scientific quality of programmes, reimbursement of activity, data security and the ownership of uploaded data.

Rational medication management mode and its implementation effect for the elderly with multimorbidity: A prospective cohort study in China

“…With the acceleration of population aging and the changing in disease spectrum, the long-term medication demand of patients with chronic diseases is increasing ( 23 ). More practical research is required to evaluate the implementation effect of technology/tool-based mode and ensure they meet their potential and value in improving chronic disease management and rational medication use for patients ( 24 ).…”

The Pocketable Electronic Devices in Radiation Oncology (PEDRO) Project

“…We analyzed the use and diffusion of MED among young radiation oncologists, but it is worthwhile to note that a consistent literature has also been produced studying the potential impact of MED on educational processes of medical students and in the informational background of patients. [17][18][19][20][21][22][23] In this context, the importance of a correct knowledge of the clinical use of apps is strongly needed and should be underlined. [23][24][25][26] Indeed, the important potential advantages could be mitigated by some critical issues that must be strictly taken into account.…”

Impact of the abandonment of assistive technologies for mobility on the incidence of serious falls in older adults living at home: Results of the ECOCAT study

“…The rate of non-adherence to fall-prevention programs among older adults with chronic diseases is high, at 40-60%. 41 There are several reasons for non-adherence, including perceived ineffectiveness and a lack of knowledge and understanding of the risks of falling. 42 Other relevant factors include the costs of prevention programs, lack of transportation and free time, and prohibitive travel distances.…”