A new study from Diakonhjemmet shows that there are good and effective alternatives to today's follow-up models for patients with chronic conditions.
Digital health services are being introduced at a rapid pace today, but few are still evaluating the effect before they're adopted. With this study, Diakonhjemmet wanted to do exactly that: examine whether new forms of follow-up actually work - and for whom.
- Nina Østerås, Diakonhjemmet
In the study, traditional, calendar-driven hospital follow-up was compared with patient-directed follow-up and digital home follow-up. The results show that the new models were equally good at controlling the condition - while reducing the need to attend hospital. That means more flexibility and freedom for the patient, and better use of resources in the health service.
Many patients with chronic conditions don't need regular in-person check-ups, but want reassurance and the ability to get help when needed. Digital tools make this possible. At the same time, Nina Østerås points out that such changes also place demands on healthcare staff: digital home follow-up requires changes in how healthcare staff work.
Digital home follow-up isn't a replacement for treatment - but a tool that makes it possible to give the right help at the right time, with better involvement and coping for the patient.
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