Healthcare technology, patient engagement and adherence : systems and business opportunity analysis

Abstract

In the current shift in the US healthcare system, lower cost, higher quality of care, access and safety are the main drivers that are effecting changes. Patient compliance with medication and technology enabled wellness and engagement programs play an important role in ensuring the cost and quality of care is reduced. In a recent study, the overall cost of poor medication adherence, measured in otherwise avoidable medical spending, is close to $310 billion annually, representing approximately 14% of total healthcare expenditures. There have been several studies analyzing the reasons for and impact of non-adherence and solutions to achieve increasing compliance. With the recent wave in healthcare technology, the scope of prescription medication adherence needs to be expanded to include patient engagement and their awareness towards lifestyle changes and managing their own health. This thesis engages in an analysis of these compliance issues and in understanding the relationships among the various stakeholders involved. It also analyses the several technology platforms and solutions from mobile health to "gamification" and social networks from a business, user and regulatory standpoint. It looks into how these newer health technologies helps the individual in adhering and realizing novel insights into their own patterns related to medication, lifestyle and general health. Further, working with a health technology startup catering to the behavioral care market, a real world application of a health technology product that utilizes technology based patient assessment, decision support and patient communication, will be evaluated to explore how it will help in delivering value to several stakeholders.