Technology is advancing every sector of life and none more so than medical treatment and management.
The latest is a world-first series of free apps to help people with diabetes better manage the chronic condition and improve their quality of life.
The apps enable people to ‘tap into the power of sharing’ by providing the ability for users to hear the stories of others, share their knowledge, access local support groups and management programs, and learn from the latest news and research.
Two apps for those with type 1 diabetes (young people and adults) and a type 2 diabetes app have been developed for iPad, iPhone and Android devices by RealTime Health with the support of Diabetes Australia – Victoria.
Diabetes is Australia’s fastest growing chronic disease affecting 1.7 million Australians. 275 Australians are diagnosed with diabetes every day.
RealTime Health Managing Director Tina Campbell said the apps provide critical and targeted information that complements advice from health professionals.
“This is an important tool to help people living with diabetes better manage their health by tapping into the knowledge and experience of others.” Ms Campbell said.
Diabetes Australia, CEO Professor Greg Johnson said the organisation was pleased to provide expert advice for the technology.
“The apps will potentially help many thousands of people with diabetes around Australia, especially those who are not able to attend support groups due to social isolation, or illness, but still wish to access the experiences and knowledge of others dealing with the same condition,” Professor Johnson said.
The apps also feature a database of local support groups and management programs, along with the latest news and research. Helpful information about losing weight, exercising and dealing with medication is featured in the ‘Stories’ module through interviews with people living with diabetes.
Ms Campbell, who is also completing a PhD on patient storytelling, said her research at the University of Melbourne found that providing people with access to the stories of fellow patients had a positive impact on their confidence to manage diabetes.
“The enormous benefits from sharing information about the day-to- day management of diabetes and other chronic conditions is now being recognized around the world,” Ms Campbell said.
The apps are available for iPhone and iPad at the App Store and for Android at Google Play. Look for Real Time Health Diabetes.
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