Game Changer

In an attempt to understand new technology based opportunities to improve health outcomes, we would do well to understand new data regarding teen use of technology. According to Harris Interactive, nearly half (47%) of US teens say their social life would end or be worsened without their cell phone, and nearly six in 10 (57%) credit their mobile device with improving their life, according to a national survey from CTIA and Harris Interactive. Second only to clothing, teens say, a person’s cell phone tells the most about their social status or popularity, outranking jewelry, watches and shoes. More than half of the respondents (52%) agree that the cell phone has become a new form of entertainment. 80% say their cell phone provides a sense of security while on the go, confirming that the cell phone has become their mobile safety net when needing a ride (79%), getting important information (51%), or just helping out someone in trouble (35%). The study also confirmed that texting is replacing talking among teens. Teens admitted spending nearly an equal amount of time talking as they do texting each month. Teens say texting has advantages over talking because it offers more options, including multitasking, speed, the option to avoid verbal communication, and because it is fun - in that order, according to the study. Nearly 42% of teens say they can text blindfolded (Blexting)! In the future teens say they want cell phones that break boundaries and are personalized to fit their lifestyles. Ideal mobile devices would feature five applications - phone, MP3 player, GPS, laptop computer and video player, according to Harris. Among adult health seekers, this reliance on technology seems to remain. According to Manhattan Research, the average patient in the US now relies on a variety of media and resources to research disease, treatment, and general health information. Perhaps more importantly, the most recent data reveals that the internet has surpassed physicians as the most popular health resource, for the first time ever. While many in the healthcare field may see this as a major problem, there is significant opportunity for new forms of patient education tools and resources that may be much more effective that those that are in current use. If effective, these tools may not only increase awareness and health knowledge, but also help to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare disparities by facilitating healthy behaviors among patients, regardless of their insurance status or ability to access a physician or healthcare provider. In fact, this potential “game changer” puts a whole new meaning into the phrase “access to care”.