Electronic in-home device tracks health
of patients with lung disease
The University of Colorado Hospital has a new method for tracking the health of patients while they are in the comfort of their own homes. With the press of a button, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) can report self-monitored information using a system called iCare Health Buddy – a small electronic device that hooks into telephone systems at home.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known in some circles as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, is a treatable lung disease, in which the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs become partially blocked, making it hard to breathe. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, more than 12 million people are currently diagnosed with COPD and an additional 12 million likely have the disease but don't know it. COPD is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States and can cause serious, long-term disability.
“ The idea of the program is to encourage people with COPD to participate in self-monitoring, Monday through Friday of each week,” said Bill Vandivier, MD, clinical director of the COPD Center at the University of Colorado Hospital. “The data they track and submit includes oxygen saturation, forced expiratory volume, a six-minute walk distance, and any symptoms the patient may be experiencing. This allows caregivers to care for and monitor patients daily while the patients remain in the comfort of their own homes – essentially reducing a wide range of health care costs and improving the quality of life for these patients.”
The “Advanced eHealth for COPD in Colorado” program is based on a previous and successful pilot study conducted at the University of Colorado Hospital in 2005. In the 40-person pilot study, the quality of life improved for patient participants while their health care costs decreased over 12 weeks.
Under the current program, four-hundred qualifying program participants will receive an electronic communication device, a pulse oximeter, a hand-held spirometer for exhaled breath monitoring, and a pedometer. This equipment is used to gather information from the program participants on a daily basis.
If interested in the Advanced eHealth for COPD in Colorado program, contact Patricia Koff, program coordinator at (303) 372-8378 or visit www.copdehealth.com.
