Since the beginning of time, medical aid has been administered through pill bottles or, more seriously, IV drips. In the last decade, we have entered a new world where healing is not only available in pharmacies, but also through app stores. Digital Therapeutics, or DTx, is the reason for this shift. It allows us to administer healing right from our smartphones.
Drugs vs. DTx is a classic example of a “complicated” relationship. They are at odds with each other and offer different healing methods, but they also work well together.
DTx Definition
Digital therapeutics are evidence-based therapeutic intervention driven by high quality software programs that prevent, manage or treat a disease or medical disorder.
Imagine it as traditional drugs but instead of taking a pill you tap on an app.
This isn't a new concept. When used in accordance with the best evidence, they can improve health outcomes and provide greater accessibility.
The Dance of Difference
The Medical Futurist recently published a useful infographic that highlights the differences between digital therapeutics and traditional drug-based therapy. This graphic visualisation shows how a new approach to treating patients could achieve the same goal.
DTx tools can be developed faster and cheaper. They also follow a different regulatory path. DTx allows real-time and automatic monitoring. It is also different, as we have discussed, from the point of view of the user: I go to the app store rather than the pharmacy and I use an application instead of swallowing tablets.
Digital therapeutics is more than a new concept. When used in accordance with the best evidence, they promise improved health outcomes, greater access, and cost-effectiveness for patient care.
Privacy + access = wider reach
In a prior article, we discussed DTx's benefits.
DTx is typically delivered via smartphone apps. This means that the solution is delivered via a medium to which almost everyone has access. Accessibility is a key factor in the adoption of any new solution.
There is also another benefit: It allows for a certain level of privacy by bringing the treatment to patients' homes and removing the stigma that has been associated with a variety of therapies in either substance abuse or mental health.
Great potential & unique risks
McKinsey's report gives some great examples. “Research shows that digital disease management is able to reduce the rate of major adverse cardiac events by 45 percent in three months and the 30-day readmission rate for patients who have suffered an acute myocardial ischemia by 50 percent.”
A second study, also interesting, highlights a factor that is often overlooked: the sociocultural influences on DTx. The external conditions such as sociocultural factors, demographics, and cognitive abilities strongly influence the effectiveness of medicine. This is true for both traditional and digital therapies.
Although DTx apps will not have the same side effects as traditional drugs, there are still challenges. These include digital barriers, privacy issues and data security.
Eight essential elements of DTx
According to McKinsey's report, effective digital therapeutics solutions usually contain at least seven of the eight following elements:
- Connected medical devices provide regular monitoring, measurements, and feedback.
- Keep payers and providers (patients) in the loop
- Coaching and support tailored to your needs
- Gamified behavior modification
- Building a vibrant community
- Unified digital health ecosystems
- Patient education
- Predicting and preventing health events using advanced analytics
If we take a step back, all of these things point to giving patients better tools for managing their health. There is nothing rocket science about this, only additional steps to empower patients and improve partnerships between healthcare professionals.
Fitting DTx in the traditional medical toolbox
How can we accommodate DTx within the centuries-old framework of medical practice? This is a fascinating problem. All of us understand the concept of drugs. It was our “go-to remedy” for all of our health problems. DTx is a new weapon in our arsenal with unique characteristics that are waiting to be integrated into the existing framework.
It's not Drugs vs DTx. It's all about Drugs & DTx and leveraging both strengths for maximum benefits.
The Medical Futurist published the first version of this article: Drugs Vs. Digital Therapeutics-A Digital Symbiosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn't considered medically necessary to treat disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture and herbal medicines, nutritional therapy, energy healing techniques, such as Reiki, and acupuncture.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. Examples of alternative medicine include meditation, yoga and aromatherapy.
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Does it have Evidence-Based Basis?
The evidence base supporting complementary and alternate medicine is still developing, but there are many factors that people choose to use these therapies. They may have tried standard treatments but found them ineffective. They may also want to try alternative therapies as they believe they offer better results than conventional care. Alternately, they may look into complementary and alternative medicine as part of a holistic approach for health. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. If you're unsure whether a particular treatment is effective, ask your doctor or pharmacist. It will save you time and money over the long-term.
What is the difference in holistic medicine and alternative medicines?
Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.
Alternative methods are used by people with cancer.
When trying to deal with their cancer, patients with the disease are often confronted with many obstacles. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Patients may feel pain, nausea or fatigue. They might also experience loss of strength, lack of appetite, or feeling helpless.
A majority of conventional treatments are ineffective against cancer cells. Patients with cancer should look into alternative treatments, such as complementary medicine. Studies have shown that half of all cancer patients have tried alternative treatments at least once.
Sometimes, cancer patients will choose complementary medicine to chemotherapy. This is because they believe it will be easier and more effective in managing side effects. They might also prefer it for its lower cost.
There are also other reasons.
Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.
Many people believe natural remedies are a way to improve your quality of life.
Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.
People concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy use natural remedies as first-line therapy.
What is another name for alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is a term that covers any treatment approach that is not conventional. While there are many alternative medical approaches, the majority are based on a belief that health care should be rooted primarily in natural substances and practices.
Alternative medicine includes acupuncture. Homeopathy, herbalism. naturopathy. osteopathic manipul. Traditional Chinese medicine. Reflexology. Shamanic healing. Prayer. Energy healing. Aromatherapy. Meditation. Chiropractic. Massage therapy. Reiki.
Many alternative practitioners claim that their therapies result in better health outcomes, including improved quality of life, fewer side effects, reduced costs, and greater patient satisfaction. However, these assertions cannot be scientifically proven because mainstream medical authorities have largely ignored the evidence-based benefits of alternative medicine.
Who uses holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not only specific symptoms. Holistic medicine focuses on both mental and physical well-being.
Holistic medicine also includes chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, nutrition counseling, yoga, and various other complementary therapies.
The majority of holistic medicine patients have had their conditions addressed.
Statistics
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
doi.org
webmd.com
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. The late 19th-century pioneer of holistic medicine was Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), the author of The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure. He relied on simple techniques like visualization, meditation, and hypnosis. This treatment was beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety, depressions, stress, pain, insomnia, or other illnesses. In addition, this kind of therapy helps patients cope with their problems and improve their quality of life.
While holistic therapies remain popular today, little evidence supports their effectiveness. However, studies show these treatments can help to relieve chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, arthritis and other ailments.
These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:
- Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- It is cheaper than traditional medicine. Some alternative medicines are cheaper than traditional ones, especially when the patient follows a natural diet.
- Patients don't feel pressured to follow the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary treatments even though they may not prescribe them.
- Holistic treatments often combine with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- Alternative treatments are more effective than conventional medicine, according to many people.
- Alternative medicines are considered more “natural” than conventional drugs.
- Many patients use complementary treatments to complement their lifestyle changes. They want to be healthy but also want to enjoy their lives.
- Patients who practice holistic therapies are healthier.
- An increasing number of older adults are turning to holistic treatment.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Research has shown that many people would prefer to explore alternative treatment options before visiting a doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments might not be for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic treatments don't just appeal to hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments can sometimes be dangerous.
- Specific conditions may benefit from holistic treatment.
- Holistic treatments can be very effective.
- Holistic treatments use ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
- It can be difficult to learn holistic therapies.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic therapies can be more cost-effective than traditional medicine.
- Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine treats the whole person. It is not about treating their symptoms. Holistic medicine includes all aspects of a person's life, including their physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, occupational and cultural influences. It is a way to prevent illness through diet, exercise or stress management.
The first holistic medical school was established at Bastyr University in Seattle in 1972. Holistic medicine grew after Dr. Andrew Weil's book “Spontaneous Healing” was published in 1996. Dr. David Williams founded the American Holistic Medical Association, Dr. Michael Murray co-founded it in 1997. Today there are hundreds of holistic medical schools all around the globe, including Bastyr University. Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons. Maharishi Ayurveda Institute. Pacific School of Oriental Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Holistic medicine was named by the World Health Organization as one of the five most important trends in healthcare. This trend seeks to integrate conventional healthcare with complementary therapies, such as homeopathy, acupuncture and massage therapy. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine works because we have an interconnected body-mind-spirit. When any of these three parts are out of balance, illness occurs. For example:
You become tense and out of balance when your mind is stressed or anxious. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. As a result, you feel tired, weak, and sick.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These create stress in your brain. If you don't treat this stress, your body can produce adrenaline (and cortisol) if it isn't addressed. Adrenaline is a stimulant of your heart beat, blood pressure, as well as breathing rate. Cortisol can affect your nervous system, immune system, and digestive tract. Both hormones can cause muscle tension, fatigue, headaches (dizziness), insomnia, anxiety and depression, among other health problems.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. It is possible to lack self-esteem or confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
Difference between allopathic and alternative medicine
Allopathic medicine is based upon the scientific method. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe they know what is happening inside the human body and how to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine uses herbs, vitamins, minerals, diet, exercise, emotional support, spiritual healing, and more. Alternative medicine is not defined in a standard way. It is sometimes called natural medicine, integrative medical, or complementary medicine. Other names include traditional medicine and naturopathic medicines.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Andrea Koncz
Title: Drugs Vs. Digital Therapeutics – A Digital Symbiosis
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/drugs-vs-digital-therapeutics-a-symbiotic-rivalry
Published Date: Tue, 04 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are examples of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn't considered medically necessary to treat disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture and herbal medicines, nutritional therapy, energy healing techniques, such as Reiki, and acupuncture.
Alternative medicine could also refer to any practice that has not been supported by scientific evidence but is used in clinical practice. Examples of alternative medicine include meditation, yoga and aromatherapy.
Complementary and Alternative Healthcare – Does it have Evidence-Based Basis?
The evidence base supporting complementary and alternate medicine is still developing, but there are many factors that people choose to use these therapies. They may have tried standard treatments but found them ineffective. They may also want to try alternative therapies as they believe they offer better results than conventional care. Alternately, they may look into complementary and alternative medicine as part of a holistic approach for health. It is vital that patients verify that all complementary and alternative medicines are supported by scientific evidence. If you're unsure whether a particular treatment is effective, ask your doctor or pharmacist. It will save you time and money over the long-term.
What is the difference in holistic medicine and alternative medicines?
Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.
Alternative methods are used by people with cancer.
When trying to deal with their cancer, patients with the disease are often confronted with many obstacles. Patients may feel hopeless or helpless, and might lose all hope of recovery. Patients may feel pain, nausea or fatigue. They might also experience loss of strength, lack of appetite, or feeling helpless.
A majority of conventional treatments are ineffective against cancer cells. Patients with cancer should look into alternative treatments, such as complementary medicine. Studies have shown that half of all cancer patients have tried alternative treatments at least once.
Sometimes, cancer patients will choose complementary medicine to chemotherapy. This is because they believe it will be easier and more effective in managing side effects. They might also prefer it for its lower cost.
There are also other reasons.
Some patients believe natural remedies can prevent a recurrence.
Many people believe natural remedies are a way to improve your quality of life.
Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.
People concerned about possible side effects of chemotherapy use natural remedies as first-line therapy.
What is another name for alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is a term that covers any treatment approach that is not conventional. While there are many alternative medical approaches, the majority are based on a belief that health care should be rooted primarily in natural substances and practices.
Alternative medicine includes acupuncture. Homeopathy, herbalism. naturopathy. osteopathic manipul. Traditional Chinese medicine. Reflexology. Shamanic healing. Prayer. Energy healing. Aromatherapy. Meditation. Chiropractic. Massage therapy. Reiki.
Many alternative practitioners claim that their therapies result in better health outcomes, including improved quality of life, fewer side effects, reduced costs, and greater patient satisfaction. However, these assertions cannot be scientifically proven because mainstream medical authorities have largely ignored the evidence-based benefits of alternative medicine.
Who uses holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats the whole person and not only specific symptoms. Holistic medicine focuses on both mental and physical well-being.
Holistic medicine also includes chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, nutrition counseling, yoga, and various other complementary therapies.
The majority of holistic medicine patients have had their conditions addressed.
Statistics
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The Rise and Rise of Complementary and Alternative Medicine: A Sociological Perspective – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
doi.org
webmd.com
How To
What are the Shortcomings and Advances in Holistic Medicine?
Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. The late 19th-century pioneer of holistic medicine was Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), the author of The Doctor's Book of Mind Cure. He relied on simple techniques like visualization, meditation, and hypnosis. This treatment was beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety, depressions, stress, pain, insomnia, or other illnesses. In addition, this kind of therapy helps patients cope with their problems and improve their quality of life.
While holistic therapies remain popular today, little evidence supports their effectiveness. However, studies show these treatments can help to relieve chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, arthritis and other ailments.
These are the highlights and pitfalls of holistic medicine:
- Lack of scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are found in the majority of observational studies.
- It is cheaper than traditional medicine. Some alternative medicines are cheaper than traditional ones, especially when the patient follows a natural diet.
- Patients don't feel pressured to follow the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors recommend complementary treatments even though they may not prescribe them.
- Holistic treatments often combine with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- Alternative treatments are more effective than conventional medicine, according to many people.
- Alternative medicines are considered more “natural” than conventional drugs.
- Many patients use complementary treatments to complement their lifestyle changes. They want to be healthy but also want to enjoy their lives.
- Patients who practice holistic therapies are healthier.
- An increasing number of older adults are turning to holistic treatment.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Research has shown that many people would prefer to explore alternative treatment options before visiting a doctor.
- It is important for doctors to realize that not all patients will benefit equally from alternate treatments.
- Holistic treatments should be a part of our culture, education system and society.
- Holistic treatments might not be for everyone.
- To help patients make informed decisions about treatment options, it is essential that we learn how to do so.
- Holistic treatments don't just appeal to hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Holistic treatments can sometimes be dangerous.
- Specific conditions may benefit from holistic treatment.
- Holistic treatments can be very effective.
- Holistic treatments use ancient knowledge.
- Holistic treatments are easy and simple to understand.
- It can be difficult to learn holistic therapies.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic treatments can be expensive.
- Holistic treatments are very expensive.
- Holistic therapies can be more cost-effective than traditional medicine.
- Holistic treatments can be more expensive than conventional medicines.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine treats the whole person. It is not about treating their symptoms. Holistic medicine includes all aspects of a person's life, including their physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, occupational and cultural influences. It is a way to prevent illness through diet, exercise or stress management.
The first holistic medical school was established at Bastyr University in Seattle in 1972. Holistic medicine grew after Dr. Andrew Weil's book “Spontaneous Healing” was published in 1996. Dr. David Williams founded the American Holistic Medical Association, Dr. Michael Murray co-founded it in 1997. Today there are hundreds of holistic medical schools all around the globe, including Bastyr University. Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons. Maharishi Ayurveda Institute. Pacific School of Oriental Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Holistic medicine was named by the World Health Organization as one of the five most important trends in healthcare. This trend seeks to integrate conventional healthcare with complementary therapies, such as homeopathy, acupuncture and massage therapy. This integration aims at providing safe, effective, patient centered care while minimizing costs and side effects.
Holistic medicine works because we have an interconnected body-mind-spirit. When any of these three parts are out of balance, illness occurs. For example:
You become tense and out of balance when your mind is stressed or anxious. Cortisol is a hormone which increases inflammation. As a result, you feel tired, weak, and sick.
Anxiety and negative emotions can lead to anxiety, fear, grief, sadness, and other unpleasant feelings. These create stress in your brain. If you don't treat this stress, your body can produce adrenaline (and cortisol) if it isn't addressed. Adrenaline is a stimulant of your heart beat, blood pressure, as well as breathing rate. Cortisol can affect your nervous system, immune system, and digestive tract. Both hormones can cause muscle tension, fatigue, headaches (dizziness), insomnia, anxiety and depression, among other health problems.
You can lose your faith and hope in life if you feel depressed. It is possible to lack self-esteem or confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationship patterns, and low energy. When your spirit is healthy, you feel happy, joyous, peaceful, and optimistic.
Difference between allopathic and alternative medicine
Allopathic medicine is based upon the scientific method. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. If needed, they may prescribe medication or perform surgery. Allopathic doctors believe they know what is happening inside the human body and how to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine uses herbs, vitamins, minerals, diet, exercise, emotional support, spiritual healing, and more. Alternative medicine is not defined in a standard way. It is sometimes called natural medicine, integrative medical, or complementary medicine. Other names include traditional medicine and naturopathic medicines.
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