Functional Requirements of a Web-Based Solution for Engaging Chronic Disease Patient to Deliver Preventative Care through Self-Management, Interaction and Outreach

Abstract

Studies demonstrate a positive correlation between favorable health outcomes (i.e. patients achieving and sustaining good health) and patients who are engaged with managing their care plan. The advancement and adoption of IT solution in the health delivery setting has empowered providers to communicate health information with other providers and patients themselves.  Patient portals have become the standard health information technology (HIT) tool for engaging patients with their care. As a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant tool, patient portals have allowed providers to share health information to patients without restraints. However, patient portals have many improvement opportunities in order to truly engage patient with their care. In a broad perspective, there is a need for bi-directional interaction between patients and providers. This paper identifies key issues that have contributed to the dissatisfactions associated with patient portals and requirements that would effectively address these issues. Moreover, this proposal will discuss how an alternate web-based solution can engage high-risk patient population, diabetics, through functions that will empower patients to manage their health, interact with multiple providers, and benefit from provider outreach efforts.