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New NHS Apps Could Cut Asthma Hospital Visits
7 Jan
Summary
- NHS watchdog recommends eight apps for asthma management.
- Apps aim to reduce hospital visits and improve patient control.
- Guidance includes tools for adults, children, and caregivers.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has recommended eight digital apps to assist individuals in managing their asthma. These apps, downloadable on smartphones and tablets, are expected to significantly decrease hospital visits by improving overall asthma control and optimizing medication usage. This initiative is part of draft guidance for the NHS, recommending their use for the next three years while further evidence is gathered.
The recommended platforms offer various features, including personalized advice for symptom changes, reminders for inhaler use, and medication trackers. They also facilitate efficient information sharing with General Practitioners (GPs) to streamline appointments. Nice emphasizes that these digital tools are intended to supplement, not replace, regular professional medical reviews, aiming to boost patient confidence in managing their condition.
This digital health push has the potential to address health inequalities, as individuals from deprived areas are disproportionately affected by asthma. Dr. Anastasia Chalkidou noted that these technologies could offer tailored support in accessible formats. The draft guidance is open for public consultation until January 26th, marking a significant step towards integrating technology into routine respiratory care.
