Chronic diseases are defined by the Centers of Disease Control as any condition that lasts a year or more and necessitates ongoing medical treatment, greatly affects daily activities or a combination of both. Some examples of chronic conditions are heart disease, diabetes and cancer, making them the leading cause of death and disability in the U.S.
With chronic disease being so prevalent in our country – 6 in 10 adults in the U.S. suffer from one – it’s no wonder that these conditions are the leading drivers of our nation’s $3.5 trillion in annual health care costs. When you add to that to the fact over 40% of adults in the United States have more than one chronic condition, and it is obvious we have a major challenge on our hands.
So where do we go from here? The movement in healthcare to encourage Complex Care Management (CCM) not only improves quality of life in individuals with one or more chronic illnesses, but it saves money and time. But what is Complex Care Management, exactly? CCM is the practice of using technology to remotely connect with participants on a regular basis – all to ensure their chronic conditions are being managed in a proactive and consistent way. Complex Care Management involves remote medical devices, many times Bluetooth-enabled, paired with mobile apps, such as the MyCharlie app through AllHealth CHOICE, creating a healthcare delivery model that improves the overall outcome of the participant and therefore, reduces healthcare costs.
The AHC Bluetooth devices collect and deliver real-time patient data to the provider to determine if intervention is needed. Providers can also gather information to see if the participating is taking any medications as prescribed, how the participant is reacting to the medication, diet, or suggested lifestyle changes. The provider can then initiate an office visit, schedule a HIPAA approved video chat, adjust medication, or change medical direction accordingly.
Remote devices that facilitate Complex Care Management can also incorporate tailored health coaching, allowing the patient to take an active role in the management of their own well-being. Through this coaching, patients input data and receive notifications regarding when to take their medications, feedback about their individual data and even positive reinforcement when taking actions to improve their health.
Complex Care Management is a win-win for patients, physicians and employers – keeping everyone as healthy as possible while saving money and time. Ready to learn more about how we can help improve health outcomes, reduce readmissions, and lower healthcare costs? Contact AllHeath CHOICE today to learn more.
