e patient connections 2010 "texting for obesity"
DESCRIPTION
Sloan Rachmuth, Founder of HEALTHeME:Learn how HEALTHeME is successfully deploying a web and text messaging intervention for obesity in busy primary care practices, and hear how providers are embracing this new approach for their patient populations.TRANSCRIPT
Texting for Obesity in Primary Care
Who we are
HEALTHeME delivers tailored behavior modification via mobile phones and the web, connecting patients and providers in obesity management and prevention.
The annual healthcare cost of being obese is $4,879 for a woman and $2,646 for a man.USA Today, September 21th 2010
Obesity Defined
Waist Circumference• Women > 35 inches
• Men > 40 inches
Body Mass Index• BMI > 25 – Overweight• BMI > 30 - Obese
Associated Conditions
Elevated Risk for1. Diabetes2. Hypertension3. Cardiovascular disease4. Depression
Primary care providers on front lineof obesity treatment and prevention.
A primary care visit averages 12 minutes
Treatment in the Medical Home Model
Physician Directed Patient Centered Continuity of Care
Physician fills a simple prescription for intervention type
Customized plan is created for each patient
Patient progress reports are sent to physician to ensure accountability
Mobile Health Landscape
Coaching / Education Monitoring & Data Collection
HEALTHeME Solution: Engagement
•Tailored health education
•Proactive coaching via text
•Feedback in real-time
What do primary care providers think about HEALTHeME?
What are they saying?
Text messaging can motivate, educate, and provide accountability.
What do providers look for when prescribing HEALTHeME?
So, what’s the idea?
Doctors select patients at the appropriate stage of change (motivated), and who are
comfortable with the technology.
Patients are willing to pay for HEALTHeME, but these same patients might be unwilling to pay out-of –pocket for the management of other chronic conditions.
Will patients pay?
Meet the HEALTHeME patient
•Female 40-60•BMI ~ 34•Co-morbid conditions•40% minorities
Summary
•Obesity treatment is not a “Wellness Plan”•Physicians will prescribe mobile health solution•Patients are willing to pay for weight loss•Encourage patient-physician interactions