Exco InTouch, a provider of digital patient engagement and data capture solutions for healthcare providers, said its collaboration with AstraZeneca has led to the development of an mHealth program Me&MyCOPD ,which improves condition management for patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as for their caregivers and healthcare providers.

Me&MyCOPD utilizes interactive mobile phone and internet-based health tools to help its participants track and better manage the condition. It gives enrolled patients the opportunity to access personalized coaching and real-time information about their disease and treatment via mobile phones and other web enabled devices, enabling patients to collect, transmit and review their own clinical data.

Mark Brincat, director of product strategy, Exco InTouch said, “Me&MyCOPD will help patients to better control their condition and healthcare providers to make more informed decisions, tailoring care pathways to each patient’s individual needs. This translates into improving patient welfare and their quality of life by reducing the number of unplanned hospital admissions and the frequency and severity of exacerbations, decreasing the overall treatment costs at the same time.”

Exco InTouch’s modular approach was used to create a disease management program, which addresses the primary issues facing the COPD patient population. A number of elements have been incorporated into the program to enable its participants to better manage their condition, addressing such challenges as improper use of medications by the patients or failing to attend clinic visits. The program features include medical device tracking, patient training, managing clinic visits, offering pulmonary rehabilitations and providing advice on how to manage lifestyle issues. Clinically validated assessments also are included to support participants, reducing the probability of exacerbations and ultimately hospitalizations. 

The program captures a broad range of patient information, ranging from understanding patients’ needs and preferences, identifying exacerbations and providing personal goals management tools. Moreover, real-time access to patients’ data guarantees the ability to monitor their adherence to treatment regimes, while also identifying the sudden deterioration of their conditions. This allows for interventions when necessary, and referral to a healthcare provider for further support and assistance. If their condition continues to worsen, patients can be signposted to see their healthcare provider based on their assessment outcomes.

Tim Davis, CEO and founder of Exco InTouch said, “AstraZeneca is at the forefront of designing mHealth programs to help those suffering from chronic conditions to better manage their health. Me&MyCOPD expands understanding of how patients use and respond to various treatment options. This underpins the ‘Intelligent Pharmaceuticals’ strategy adopted by AstraZeneca and is the leading example of how optimized treatment can improve patients’ quality of life and health outcomes.”

“Advances in mobile technology and the rise of mHealth,” he said, “have an enormous potential to make a real difference, not just of individuals, but entire nations.”