Use of Technology for Patient Management

Patient management is a system used by health professionals and their patients to keep track of their health related information. In recent years, technology has allowed health care management to move from outdated files which take up massive amounts of physical space, to computerized, online, remote, and mobile systems that allow both doctors and patients to the opportunity to update and adjust information regarding someone’s care when necessary.

Online Patient Management

• According to the New Zealand Ministry of Health, online patient management systems help both doctors and patients keep up with the vast amount of information that comprises a person’s medical history and their current medical conditions. Online patient management systems encourages patients to update their information about the day to day experiences of their health, while allowing their doctor to see that information and respond to it in a timely fashion.

Remote Patient Management

• Medtronic.com reports that patient management systems can be used to evaluate a person’s physical condition in long distance. The article cites a 2008 presentation made in Europe in which a device implanted into the chests of persons suffering from cardiovascular conditions was remotely monitored by their physicians using an online receiving system. The device was able to alert doctor’s to the level of fluid in their patient’s chest, one key indicator presaging the occurrence of a heart attack. Because of the implant, some people were able to get the treatment they needed to avoid a more serious complication.

Mobile Patient Management

• Mobile or wireless technology is also influencing patient management. The prevalence of mobile devices such as SmartPhones, personal digital assistants, and net books, have created a need in which doctors, nurses, and other health professionals need to have fast and accurate access to patient information. Mobile patient management uses a wireless network to transmit data between health care providers and their patients if necessary. The article “Wireless-enabled Patient Management Turns a Corner” by John Farrell, argues that wireless patient management systems are becoming more popular as hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices are recognizing the need for an efficient and inexpensive solution to the need for transmitting patient information safely. In addition to systems used primarily by doctor's, manufacturers have also created devices that can be used by individuals who need a reliable and efficient method of maintaining their information. The MedFlash USB device is a flash drive especially designed to keep health related information. Images from x-rays, MRIs, CT scans can be saved in addition to prescription lists, family medical histories, and emergency contact information.