Project Vayoraksha: Implementation of novel mHealth technology for healthcare delivery during COVID-19 in geriatric population of Kerala
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.The Vayoraksha mobile application successfully supported healthcare delivery and quarantine compliance for Indian geriatric populations. This mHealth intervention showed promise for improving health outcomes in resource-poor settings.
Area Of Science
- Public Health
- Digital Health
- Geriatric Care
Background
- mHealth technologies offer low-cost, tailored interventions for public health in India, particularly in resource-poor settings.
- Project Vayoraksha aimed to improve healthcare delivery and quarantine for the elderly using mHealth strategies.
- The study focused on the geriatric population in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, from October 2020 to July 2021.
Purpose Of The Study
- To develop and pilot test mHealth technology-assisted strategies for the geriatric population.
- To improve healthcare delivery and facilitate reverse quarantine among the elderly.
- To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the Vayoraksha mobile application and field network.
Main Methods
- A field operational research study involving the development of the Vayoraksha mobile application and a web interface for healthcare workers.
- Implementation through the 'field Vayoraksha campaign' with frontline health workers and community volunteers.
- Baseline survey, symptom surveillance, teleconsultation, needs assessment, and monitoring of quarantine compliance.
Main Results
- Out of 4782 geriatric individuals, 2383 (49.8%) had smartphone access, and 750 (59.6%) downloaded the Vayoraksha app.
- 452 (60.3%) used the app's services, with 56 (12.3%) registering needs, primarily medical for chronic diseases.
- Over 70% of needs were met, 77.7% compliance with quarantine was observed, and only 2.6% tested positive for COVID-19 among app users.
Conclusions
- The pilot study demonstrates promising results, with significant adoption of the Vayoraksha application by the geriatric population.
- Technology-assisted interventions can effectively supplement existing healthcare systems for vulnerable groups.
- The Vayoraksha model shows good potential for scale-up in developing countries to enhance healthcare delivery.