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

Authors: Mihail Cocosila, Constantinos Coursaris, Yufei Yuan

Addresses: Michael G. DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4M4, Canada. ' Michael G. DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4M4, Canada. ' Michael G. DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4M4, Canada

Abstract: 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.

Keywords: disease management; self-management; diabetes management; mobile healthcare; m-health; e-health; wireless communication; chronic illness; home care; information technology; m-healthcare; electronic healthcare; mobile communications.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEH.2004.005869

International Journal of Electronic Healthcare, 2004 Vol.1 No.2, pp.221 - 241

Published online: 23 Dec 2004 *

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