Patient Self-Management Tools: An Overview - CHCF.org

Patient Self-Management Tools: An Overview - CHCF.org: "Patient Self-Management Tools: An Overview Michael J. Barrett, Critical Mass Consulting June 2005 This report defines self-management tools as technologies used by consumers to deal with their health issues outside formal medical institutions and provides a taxonomy for better understanding the types of self-management tools available in today's market. Self-management tools can be categorized as: * Subordinate: Tools such as video monitoring or home surveillance sensor systems, provide limited patient discretion beyond agreement to use the tools. * Structured: These are tools that provide more active self-management, but in highly defined ways. Examples range from sound and text reminders from a table-top appliance or perhaps a personal digital assistant or telephone, along with the patient’s ability to transmit data, for example, blood pressure readings. * Collaborative: This category covers those tools that have been the most thoroughly examined and embraced by disease management theorists. These include decision support aids, online interventions, chronic disease management aids, and patient education materials. * Autonomous: As the name suggests, tools for autonomous roles do not require regular participation or input from professionals. Internet sites such as eDiets and home heart defibr"