TECHNOLOGY
like weight management, these all-inclusive apps contain a variety of different features that give diabetic patients a better representation of their overall health. For example, some apps link to online portals that store the data that the patient inputs through the app. This online connection enables these apps to hold larger amounts of information than single-component apps can handle. They can store blood glucose levels, carbohydrate intake, medication adherence, weight data and more—instead of just one of these types of data. Patients can then share this detailed information with their physician, pharmacist and caregivers, who can then more effectively treat them. “Pharmacists need to be aware that smartphones and other devices that allow access to patient monitoring data are incredibly valuable,” Bennett said. “These devices enable instant remote communication with patients to coach them, remind them to take medicine, confirm an appointment and more.” How pharmacists can help Your diabetic patients come to your pharmacy regularly to stock up on insulin or to refill their diabetes medication. As one of their most accessible healthcare providers, your patients depend on you to help them manage their disease. Encourage your patients to look at mobile apps and new technologies to help them successfully take charge of their health. To do so, you’ll need to educate yourself on the apps available. If you own a smartphone, download and test some diabetes apps to get a feel for what’s available. Pharmacists also need to look into the ways that their patients and their community as a whole are using mobile technology. “We have to be able to know about, utilize and recommend the technologies that the health providers in our area are promoting,” Bennett said. In the future, pharmacists will also need to stay informed on the types of technology the insurance companies recommend or require for their members. Encouraging your diabetes patients to use mobile technologies can not only improve their health, it can also strengthen your business. When patients learn how they can use their smartphones to improve their health from you, they’ll view your pharmacy and your pharmacists as diabetes experts. They’ll likely want to return to your pharmacy for more information and possibly even recommend your store to others. Who knew being tech savvy could be so good for business?
Download This! 5 Apps For Diabetic Patients Calorie Counter by MyNetDiary This app makes keeping track of a diet easier. Users can record meals, water intake, exercise, and weight loss with this comprehensive app, which works with MyNetDiary online. Available on iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, BlackBerry and Android. dLife Created by the dLife website, this app enables users to log glucose levels, find recipes and nutritional information, and more. Users can graph daily, weekly or monthly glucose levels and track trends, all of which they can e-mail to themselves or to their providers. Available on iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. Fooducate Armed with this app, users can scan barcodes and search for healthy foods at the grocery store. Fooducate grades groceries and explains what’s really inside each product. It also gives recommendations on healthier alternatives. Available on iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android. Glucose Buddy It’s easy for users to record blood glucose levels, insulin injections and diet and exercise information with Glucose Buddy. This app connects users to Glucose Buddy forums and allows them to sync the app to an online account, where they can manage their blood glucose data and review trends. Available on iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. Workout Trainer This app helps users stay fit by featuring workouts led by personal trainers. The exercises, which don’t require any equipment, include step-by-step photos, videos, and audio. Users can track their progress through their phone or online. Available on iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, BlackBerry and Android. List courtesy of the American Diabetes Association
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