Background/Problem Statement

Lifestyle modifications such as improving diet and increasing physical activity have greater impact in managing chronic diseases than medication. Given the constraint in resources in healthcare settings, mobile health (mHealth) can be an effective solution to promote lifestyle modification among patients with comorbid diabetes and hypertension. Previous research studies have shown that mHealth interventions may be effective for improving patient outcomes among patients with diabetes or hypertension. However, limited mHealth intervention supported by appropriate behavior change theories and evidence exists for patients with comorbid diabetes and hypertension.

Solution

The EMPOWER+ mobile app, developed in close collaboration with Singapore General Hospital, uses AI risk stratification algorithms  to create a novel model for chronic disease self-management that includes:

• AI-powered notifications providing timely and relevant nudges for healthy lifestyle behavior
• Health coaching to poorly controlled diabetic patients with low confidence and knowledge for behavioral change

Benefits

Feasibility studies and clinical trials conducted by Singapore General Hospital have shown that the EMPOWER+ mobile app is highly usable and acceptable. Participants appreciate the personalised nudges which are based on AI risk stratification algorithms and have a high level of accuracy in predicting behaviors. Preliminary analysis demonstrated the beneficial effect of the EMPOWER mobile app in improving glycemic control.

Potential Application(s)

Healthcare institutions can use this novel care model comprising mHealth and health coaching  to improve management of patients with comorbid diabetes and hypertension. For example, primary care can adopt this novel care model to augment physician care.

We welcome interest from the industry for collaboration/ co-development / customisation of the technology into a new product or service. If you have any enquiries or are keen to collaborate, please contact us.