M-healthcare for patient self-management: a case for diabetics

Disease management facilitated through information technology could mean a step forward towards a more effective and efficient care of patients afflicted with chronic illnesses. Focusing on diabetes, the paper explores the value proposition of wireless technology in enhancing patient self-management and quality of life. Diabetics' non-compliance with prescribed treatment plans mandates the adoption of advanced tools that can support patients through automated functions (e.g., notification reminders for taking medication), decision-support (e.g., analysis of self-test data and feedback), and anytime/anywhere communication and intervention capability (e.g., emergency consultation by healthcare practitioner). A cost-benefit analysis for the mobile self-management of diabetics suggests time and financial savings for both patients and the healthcare providers.

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