Disease management via the TV
Philips has introduced a disease-management solution that works through
a set-top box on a domestic television.
The Motiva Interactive Healthcare Platform uses broadband television,
along with home vital-sign measurement devices, to connect patients with
chronic diseases to healthcare professionals and providers, and help them
better manage their conditions.
The service is media-rich and highly customisable, and includes the
potential for: educational videos delivered on-demand; medication
reminders; personalised messages and surveys from caregivers, and feedback
relating to vital signs (such as weight and blood pressure).
Content is delivered by secure broadband TV connection. It is accessed via
an easy-to-use interactive television interface and a remote control
designed especially for older users.
Jay Mazelsky, General Manager of the New Ventures Business Unit within
Philips Medical Systems, says: “There has been a trend for some time to
shift healthcare from the hospital into the home. One such area is how
physicians and healthcare systems can manage chronically ill patients once
they have been discharged from hospital. Motiva allows patients to access
their own personal ‘healthcare channel’ through their TV.”
Philips launched a usability pilot study in the US, in October 2004, to
test how easy it is for physicians, nurses and patients with congestive
heart failure to use a broadband connection to transmit healthcare data to
and from patients’ homes. The test was intended to assess the quality of
care as well as the possible productivity and cost benefits of the
solution. Feedback from the test was incorporated into Motiva’s current
commercial release.
Philips is already looking to develop the product further. Mazelsky
says: “Further down the road, patients will be able to hold a
videoconference with their doctor and connect to family or friends for
informal support. Philips will also expand the Motiva platform to address
a wider spectrum of conditions and acuity levels, as we continue to focus
on ‘extending the reach of care’.”
He adds: “Currently, the solution is based around the TV, but patients
will also be able to use Motiva with a computer, a PDA or even a cell
phone.” www.medical.philips.com
Source: bjhc&im July 2005
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