We love seeing mobile technology making life better for non tech-savvy users. In that sense we bring you the story involving Medicaid managed care organization D.C. Chartered Health Plan and their new text messaging program designed to help its members better manage diabetes.
According to official stats, those living in the D.C. are prone to diabetes more than residents of any other state. In 2010, 10.9% of adults in the District received a diabetes diagnosis, compared with only 8.7% nationwide, and death rates associated with the disease are also disproportionately higher.
Chartered is already doing something about it, keeping its members with diabetes engaged in their care through regular telephone calls and mailings, as well as face-to-face interaction. By adding a text messaging element, the organization hopes to enable its members to play a more active role in the management of their disease.
Under the scheme, participants in the program receive tips and messages on various topics, including when to contact a doctor, nutrition and other diabetes-related information. Moreover, interactive quizzes also come included as well as announcements for community events to keep participants involved…