Mobile phone technology in the management of asthma.
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Date
2005-07-22
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Abstract
Peak flow monitoring is widely recommended as part of a self management plan for asthma We conducted an observational study using electronic peak flow monitoring and mobile phone technology in a UK general practice population over a nine month period Patients between 12 and 55 years of age who required treatment with regular inhaled steroids and as needed bronchodilators were recruited from nine general practices Patients were included if their asthma was considered stable i e no exacerbation in the previous three months No therapeutic intervention was proposed The primary outcome measure was compliance In all 69 of the 46 participants who filled in the post study questionnaire were satisfied or very satisfied by the study citing the ease of use and the increased autonomy and understanding of asthma as the main advantages In total 74 indicated that the system had helped to improve their ability to manage their symptoms The most positive features of the telemedicine system were described as follows increased awareness and information about asthma improved ability to monitor manage the condition with the feedback screens on the mobile phone and ease of use