In a pioneering initiative, the Peterson Health Technology Institute (PHTI) has announced plans to conduct thorough evaluations of digital solutions addressing hypertension and mental health conditions. The assessments will encompass clinical benefits, economic impact, and considerations such as health equity, user experience, privacy, and security.
Caroline Pearson, Executive Director of PHTI, emphasized the transformative potential of digital technologies in enhancing access to care and managing chronic conditions. The evaluations aim to provide transparent and independent insights into the performance of various digital solutions for hypertension and mental health care, guiding payers, patients, and providers in making informed decisions.
Digital Solutions for Hypertension
With approximately 120 million U.S. adults grappling with hypertension, effective management remains a challenge for less than 25% of them, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Individuals with hypertension bear nearly $2,000 in additional out-of-pocket costs annually compared to their counterparts without the condition.
The significance of self-management strategies, including consistent monitoring, increased physical activity, and adherence to medication schedules, is underscored by experts. A recent study published in JAMA Network highlighted that digital health interventions targeting hypertension management in populations facing health disparities yielded greater reductions in blood pressure compared to standard care.
Current digital health approaches for hypertension management include text message reminders, remote blood pressure monitoring, and virtual behavioral coaching. Pearson emphasized the potential of effective remote hypertension monitoring and self-management solutions to inform clinical care decisions, improving patient health and reducing future complications and associated costs.
Virtual Care for Depression and Anxiety
Mental health conditions impact nearly 60 million U.S. adults, with an annual employer cost of $187 billion. A substantial investment of approximately $12 billion from 2018 to 2022 in video- and messaging-based treatment options reflects the growing recognition of digital solutions for mental health.
Findings from a large retrospective data analysis published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research in October 2023 highlighted significant improvement in depression and anxiety symptoms among telepsychiatry users, reinforcing the effectiveness of virtual care.
The PHTI’s assessments of digital solutions for hypertension and mental health are slated for release in the second half of 2024. These evaluations are poised to offer valuable insights, facilitating informed decisions for stakeholders and contributing to the ongoing evolution of digital healthcare solutions.
