MASK-rhinitis, a single tool for integrated care pathways in allergic rhinitis

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Digital Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a globally prevalent condition impacting millions.
• Current management often lacks standardized care pathways and integrated patient-provider communication.
• There is a need for accessible tools to improve AR diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce MASK-rhinitis, an ICT tool designed to establish standardized care pathways for allergic rhinitis.
• To facilitate seamless communication and decision support between patients, pharmacists, primary care physicians, and specialists.
• To improve the assessment and management of allergic rhinitis control.

Main Methods:

• Development of the MASK-rhinitis tool, incorporating a visual analogue scale for symptom assessment.
• Utilizing an app and tablet interface for patient screening and data collection.
• Integration of a clinical decision support system (CDSS) for guided treatment and referral.

Main Results:

• MASK-rhinitis enables patients to screen for allergic diseases.
• Pharmacists can guide over-the-counter (OTC) medication prescriptions and identify patients needing physician referral.
• Primary care physicians can utilize the CDSS for treatment prescription, follow-up, and control assessment.

Conclusions:

• MASK-rhinitis provides a structured approach to allergic rhinitis care pathways.
• The tool supports patient stratification for severe, uncontrolled rhinitis and facilitates clinical trials.
• It promotes a common language and integrated care across different healthcare levels for allergic rhinitis management.