The Challenge of Digital Health Technologies for Patients with Multiple Chronic Conditions
The rapid proliferation of digital health technologies has numerous benefits for patients. However, new research published in JAMA Network Open suggests that these technologies may be challenging for patients with multiple chronic conditions. The study found that such patients might need to use several digital health technologies concurrently to reap their benefits, which could lead to a significant burden.
The research aimed to assess the number of digital health technologies that a patient with five chronic conditions should be prescribed to receive benefits. The study authors noted that while digital health technologies have proven benefits, most are designed for a single condition or problem. In contrast, most chronic care patients have multiple chronic conditions.
The researchers conducted a systematic review without meta-analysis, identifying all digital health technologies that could be prescribed to a hypothetical 79-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis. They selected the technologies from three FDA databases and the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA) App Library from National Health Service (NHS) Somerset for approved or recommended digital health technologies between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2022.
The researchers identified 148 unique digital health technologies that could be prescribed to the hypothetical patient. Most of these technologies involved devices (65%), while the rest (35%) were standalone health apps. Overall, 97% of the technologies were intended for single conditions and problems, and 86% were accessible over the counter. Only five digital health technologies (3.4%) were intended for two or more conditions.
The study determined that the hypothetical patient would need to be prescribed up to 13 apps and seven devices, including a blood pressure monitor, smartwatch, and pulse oximeter, to benefit from 28 functions considered important by most health professionals. The researchers noted that this could create a significant burden for patients, including having to familiarize themselves with different interfaces, create new routines, and potentially deal with contradictory information.
The researchers emphasized the need to change the perspective of digital medicine from a product-focused approach to one that is centered on patients’ needs and capacities. They called for “minimally disruptive digital medicine.” The findings are consistent with other studies that have highlighted the variabilities in digital health technology use among different demographic groups.
For instance, a recent study found that older adults’ race, sex, age, and other demographic factors influence their utilization of digital health technologies. The study revealed that female respondents and those aged 50 to 59 were more likely to report digital health technology use than male respondents and those aged 60 and older. Additionally, a majority of white adults reported using digital health technologies compared to Black and Hispanic adults.
The research underscores the importance of developing patient-centered digital health technologies that cater to the needs of diverse patient populations, particularly those with multiple chronic conditions.
