Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics both improved their disease management and reduced healthcare spending after receiving text reminders to watch their blood sugar and other aspects of the disease, says a new study published in Health Affairs.  After six months of text messages during a pilot program at the University of Chicago Medical Center, providers saw an 8.8% net cost savings and an increase in patient satisfaction and glycemic control.

The study adds to the body of evidencearguing for the benefits of mHealth in chronic disease care as the US smartphone ownership numbers continue to skyrocket.  Lead author Shantanu Nundy, MD explains that daily engagement with providers through smartphones can keep patients on track with their self-care and build behavioral changes into the everyday routine of patients who may not always remember to adhere to best practices for managing their diseases.

Read more: http://healthitanalytics.com/2014/02/06/mhealth-reminders-improve-diabetes-care-reduce-costs-by-8-8/

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