According to the WHO, at least one person in every Indian family suffers from chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. Typically, patients visit doctors quarterly or monthly, but these visits often lack the time needed to address all health parameters.
This communication gap between doctors and patients contributes significantly to dissatisfaction and impacts health outcomes. Many patient interviews have revealed how these barriers affect health management and overall satisfaction. A strong partnership between doctors and patients is essential for effective disease management. However, challenges such as limited consultation time, irregular follow-ups, and patient’s lack of understanding often hinder this partnership.
Digital therapeutics(DTx) are emerging as a transformative force, particularly in chronic disease management such as diabetes and heart health. For a country like India, where diabetes is a growing epidemic affecting over 77 million people, the integration of digital therapeutics into routine care can significantly enhance doctor-patient collaboration and improve outcomes.
DTx for Doctor-Patient Collaboration
Digital therapeutics leverage technology to deliver real-time information such as blood test reports, food intake, and activity through apps, devices, and software facilitating decision-making, and remote monitoring. DTx empowers both doctors and patients in the following ways:
1. Real-Time Data Sharing
Tools such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), Bluetooth blood pressure monitors and smart insulin pens provide real-time data. This data can be seamlessly shared with doctors via integrated platforms, enabling timely adjustments to medicines and treatment plans.
For example, platforms like Fitterfly offer user-friendly interfaces that allow patients to log meals, physical activity, glucose levels, and blood pressure (BP), giving doctors a comprehensive view of their daily routines and the impact of medications, food, and other physical and mental activities on their health parameters.
2. Shared Decision-Making
DTx promotes transparency by making patients’ health data accessible to both doctors and patients. Doctors can provide evidence-based recommendations, while patients can promptly implement revised treatment plans.
3. Online Consultation
Online consultation facilities offered by DTx tools allow doctors to monitor patients remotely, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits.
Digital Therapeutics Is the Future of Collaborative Care
By integrating DTx into routine diabetes and chronic disease management, Indian doctors can foster a more collaborative relationship with their patients. This shift from episodic care to continuous, personalised care can transform health outcomes.
As the healthcare ecosystem evolves, embracing DTx is not just an option but a necessity to bridge the gap between doctors and patients. Together, through technology and collaboration, we can combat the diabetes epidemic and empower millions to lead healthier lives.
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