But for doctors treating patients with chronic diseases, text messaging can be an invaluable tool, according to Johns Hopkins Children’s Center pediatrician Delphine Robotham. “For better or worse, this technology is here,” she said, “and sending a text to a patient’s cell phone about an upcoming appointment or a test, or simply to remind them to take their meds, is a great example of how we can harness new communication technology for a greater good.”

Research has shown that up to half of patients may fail to take their daily medication properly, with forgetting being a top reason for nonadherence so, at least in some cases, a text reminder may be all that a patient needs, added Robotham, who has encouraged the use of appropriate texting among pediatricians at Johns Hopkins.

Several recent studies have looked at use of SMS (short message service, or text messaging) in a medical context, Robotham notes. For example, one study involving children with diabetes showed improved blood glucose testing rates among those using it. These children were also more likely to share their blood glucose test readings with their doctor’s office. In another study, patients on immunosuppressive drugs after a liver transplant had improved medication adherence. The liver study detected measurable clinical benefits from text messaging: Acute liver rejection episodes dropped dramatically as a result of better medication adherence. Chronic conditions that require daily medication, such as HIV, asthma and TB, or daily testing, such as diabetes, are great candidates for “SMS therapy,” Robotham said.

Nice article about a simple health information technology (HIT) tool that has shown some evidence towards increasing adherence, especially in pediatric/adolescent patient populations. A good reminder that the HIT tool chosen must fit the needs of the patient population served.

(via @NeilEdillo)