Technology and its role in respiratory care

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Medicine
• Digital Health
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Telemonitoring, telemedicine, and telecare utilize technology for remote patient monitoring at home.
• These technologies are of significant interest for managing long-term respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing evidence supporting the use of technology in improving care for respiratory patients.

Main Methods:

• This study employed a narrative review methodology.

Main Results:

• Various technologies, including management systems and self-monitoring devices, have been used in asthma and COPD care.
• While staff and patients generally reported positive experiences with the technology, demonstrable service, care, and financial benefits were less evident.
• Many studies were limited by poor methodology and lacked clearly defined endpoints.

Conclusions:

• Telemonitoring holds substantial potential for enhancing care in chronic lung diseases.
• However, conclusive evidence of benefit is lacking, necessitating further rigorous research with clear objectives for specific patient groups before widespread implementation can be recommended.