Peterson Health Technology Institute to Evaluate Digital Health Products
The Peterson Health Technology Institute (PHTI) is gearing up to assess digital health products for their clinical efficacy and economic impact, focusing initially on diabetes and musculoskeletal disorders.
Addressing Major Concerns
Diabetes and musculoskeletal disorders are of paramount concern for older adults. Up to 34% of long-term care residents grapple with diabetes, a condition that often exacerbates heart disease and cognitive decline. On the other hand, a significant 70% of older adults report arthritis or joint pain, with about one-third of this group experiencing severe enough symptoms to disrupt daily life.
PHTI’s Mission
PHTI aims to evaluate digital health tools that tackle complex health issues and hold the potential to enhance outcomes and affordability for both patients and payers. According to Caroline Pearson, Executive Director of Peterson, this is a crucial step towards the advancement of healthcare solutions.
Focus on Diabetes
For diabetes, PHTI will examine remote patient monitoring tools like biosensors designed to measure blood glucose levels. Many of these products not only monitor diabetes but also claim to address weight management, heart health, and mental well-being.
Comprehensive Assessment for Musculoskeletal Disorders
The assessment for musculoskeletal disorders will encompass virtual physical therapy solutions. Some of these solutions employ artificial intelligence and wearable devices to aid patients. The broad evaluation approach is aimed at ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the technology’s effectiveness.
Necessity of Vetting New Technologies
It’s essential to vet new technologies thoroughly before widespread adoption. Historically, tools like electronic medical records have not always resulted in time savings for clinicians due to difficulties in learning and using them.
Industry Input
The PHTI will actively seek input from healthcare professionals to determine which health technologies should undergo independent evaluation in the future.
Access to Evaluation Reports
The reports resulting from PHTI’s analyses will be made available online early next year, providing valuable insights for the healthcare industry and consumers.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.