Our smartphones are a big part of our lives, helping us connect with others and providing entertainment. And thanks to new technology, your smartphone is also a potentially powerful health tool, especially if you have a chronic condition.
How are apps and at-home medical devices helping people live better? Henry Ford Health emergency medicine physician Andrew Park, M.D., provides some insights.
Monitoring Your Health at Home
A few decades ago, checking your blood pressure, blood sugar, blood oxygen levels and heart rate required a visit to your healthcare provider. Now, people can check this essential health data at home with a health device and their smartphone.
“Monitoring your health at home can provide you with peace of mind or alert you when you need to see a provider,” says Dr. Park. “This technology is particularly beneficial for people with conditions like diabetes, asthma and COPD because they often need frequent health checks. With apps and at-home medical devices, people can check up on their health from the comfort of home.”
Health devices and apps give you real-time results, but they have an extra perk—they also provide data that you can send to your provider.
“Many apps can record your health measures in a database with the date and time,” says Dr. Park. “This information can reveal patterns that tell your provider how your treatment is working.”
Though they’re helpful tools, Dr. Park cautions that home medical devices and apps can’t replace a human healthcare provider . “If something doesn’t seem right or you feel unwell, call your provider for medical advice, even if you have ‘normal’ results,” says Dr. Park. “Machines and devices aren’t 100% foolproof, so don’t be afraid to seek care if you’re not sure.”
The perks of medication reminder apps
Taking medications on time is an essential part of managing many chronic conditions. But when life gets busy, it’s easy to forget your meds. Don’t let that happen to you: use an app!
“Research shows that forgetting medications is a common and potentially serious health issue,” says Dr. Park. “A medication reminder app can be a reliable way to ensure you don’t miss a dose. Apps can also prevent an accidental overdose by keeping a record of what you took and how much.”
Motivation for healthy changes
A healthy diet and physical activity can help you live better with many chronic conditions, but these changes can be challenging to make. Seeing your progress with the help of an app can be a big motivator.
“Food diary apps can help you understand your eating habits and find areas to improve,” says Dr. Park. “And exercise apps can help you set goals, record your activity and even work out virtually with others.”
Many smartwatches can also track your heart rate, which can help you optimize your workouts. “Monitoring your heart rate allows you to find the right intensity that’s safe for you,” says Dr. Park. “Some heart monitors can even identify potential arrhythmias. If your monitor picks up any abnormal rhythms, contact your provider right away.”
Telemedicine: “Seeing” Your Provider at Home
Chronic Disease Management at Henry Ford
We text, email and video call friends and family when we can’t see them in person. And telemedicine has made it possible to do the same with our healthcare providers.
“Healthcare messaging portals allow you to book appointments and send non-urgent health questions 24 hours a day,” says Dr. Park. “They’re a convenient way to keep in touch with your provider nearly anytime and anywhere.”
Telehealth also means you can “see” your provider without stepping out your front door. These virtual visits work well for many non-emergency needs and people with chronic health concerns.
“Regular visits with your provider are essential if you’re managing a long-term condition,” Dr. Park says. “Unfortunately, transportation and travel time can get in the way. Virtual visits can remove those barriers, making it more convenient for people to see their provider regularly. Ultimately, this leads to better management of chronic conditions so people can live healthier lives.”
Humans and Technology: A Great Combination
Smartphones, apps and telemedicine have changed how we care for our health, but they won’t replace your relationship with your provider.
“Technology can help you take charge of your health in ways that weren’t possible before,” Dr. Park says. “But it’s still important to see your provider face-to-face for recommended visits. That human interaction will always be an essential part of medicine.”
Reviewed by Andrew Park, M.D., an emergency medicine and ultrasound faculty physician at Henry Ford Hospital and Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital.
