Opitimization of the telemedicine with PHR for patients with lifestyle-related diseases

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K16336
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 54040:Metabolism and endocrinology-related
• Research Institution: National Center for Child Health and Development
• Principal Investigator: Sankoda Akiko 国立研究開発法人国立成育医療研究センター, 周産期・母性診療センター, 研究員 (60887074)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 遠隔診療 / PHR / DTx / 2型糖尿病

Outline of Final Research Achievements

TThe COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine. Despite concerns regarding its accuracy and safety, the utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), such as Personal Health Records (PHR) and Digital Therapeutics (DTx), is expected to enhance the management of lifestyle-related diseases beyond the capabilities of traditional in-person consultations. This study investigates the impact of telemedicine and DTx on patients with type 2 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed 2,386 patients with type 2 diabetes (mean age 69.4 years, 62.5% male). During the pandemic, there was a decrease in the number of medical visits, a deterioration in HbA1c levels, and an accelerated decline in renal function. No significant differences were observed between patients with and without telemedicine. Additionally, no significant improvement effects were observed with the use of DTx.

Free Research Field

糖尿病・内分泌

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

新型コロナウイルス感染症の流行拡大によって、時限的、特例的措置として遠隔診療に関する規制が緩和された。また医療におけるICTの利活用も急速に拡大した。本研究では、コロナ禍が2型糖尿病患者に及ぼした影響を検討すると同時に、どのような特徴を有する患者に、遠隔診療やDTxが安全かつ有効に実施可能か検討した。よりよいデジタル医療の開発・提供に貢献する研究である。