With the phenomenon known as ‘selfies,’ it doesn’t seem too surprising that ‘selfie medicine’ apps are being integrated into the medical world. Today, some doctors require patients to record a video of themselves taking medicine to prove they are following instructions. These new ways of monitoring medications and healthcare come with various challenges, such as monitoring security issues and receiving long-term adherence from patients using the app.
Telehealth requires experience in finding the right balance of personalization and technology, but Shital Mars, CEO of Progressive Care, a personalized healthcare services and technology company, has seen what can work and what usually doesn’t work when it comes to creating a digital pharmacy model.
The first hurdle with selfie medicine apps is data security and ensuring that a patient’s sensitive information about their disease isn’t exposed.
Each pain type, severity, and unique patient condition requires a specialized approach whereby all options are explored before an opioid is deemed necessary. This methodology will help patients achieve primary relief and preserved functionality without putting them at unnecessary risk. The right pharmacy partner will make the difference as pharmacists, those specially trained in pharmacology are often the missing link and an obvious vital resource for doctors struggling to deliver solutions. It takes time, patience, and expertise to get it right, but the cost of cutting corners is already evident.
Taken by themselves, each state has relatively common solutions. Dependency would entail a managed withdrawal and introduction of effective medicinal alternatives. Addiction would require rehabilitation. However, dependence and addiction often exist at the same time. Most patients who are opioid dependent are also addicted, which is a much more difficult situation to solve.