Using HIPAA compliant text messaging to track Alzheimer's progression

Text messaging effectively communicates short and quick messages with patients in a way they use daily. This makes it one of the best ways to track symptomatic changes in diseases like Alzheimer’s where subtle fluctuations are relevant to how physicians handle patient care.

The function behind progression tracking for Alzheimer's patients 

Monitoring changes in cognitive function is an invaluable tool physicians use to identify how to slow down the progress of diseases like Alzheimer's. The goal of the practice is to give providers the data necessary to tailor interventions toward allowing the patient to have complete cognitive function for as long as possible. 

An Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences study provides the main method of tracking used, “When performed repeatedly over time, [MRI and PET studies] can be used to visualize disease progression in living patients.” Alongside early detection methods like imaging methods to visually track the disease, the progression of symptomatic changes can offer additional invaluable data for the creation of a treatment plan. This data is unfortunately hard difficult to obtain or overlooked by patients and their families during regular appointments.

Related: Support group tracking using automated HIPAA compliant text messaging

How text messaging can be used to track Alzheimer’s progression

Structured check ins through HIPAA compliant text messaging platforms like Paubox Text messaging that allows patients, or caregivers, to report daily observations about cognitive function and behavior. The symptoms to note should be brief and remain based on a criterion carefully created by the physician. 

The factors that can be tracked include mood, memory lapses, or challenges in basic motor functions that could indicate that the disease has progressed and requires attention. An ongoing dialogue based on simple check ins helps patients and their support systems to feel less isolated when handling the difficult disease. It also improves the chances of emergency intervention when symptoms arise that the patient may not be aware of.

Best practices for the effective use of text messaging to track Alzheimer’s progression

Standardize all check-ins

• Creating tailored, standardized questions for daily or weekly check-ins allows for text messaging output from patients and caregivers that includes valuable information. 
  
  

Establish timing and frequency 

• Create a consistent schedule for sending check in questions and reminders to develop a sense of routine around the practice. 
• These texts, both check ins and questions, should remain regular and short. Tailoring the timing of messaging could be based on prevalent symptoms like times when patients experience sundowning or heightened emotional agitation. 
  
  

Use a secure compliant messaging service

• As a healthcare provider, HIPAA compliance is necessary. This means that any message sent to patients or caregivers should be sent through HIPAA compliant text messaging platforms. 
  
  

Document any changes

• Encourage patients and caregivers to document any concerning changes not addressed in questions sent. 
• The data sent should be analyzed and tracked in the patient's electronic health record. 
  
  

FAQs

When can third parties access a patient's medical record? 

When a patient’s medical record with the patient’s consent. Alternatively, it can be shared when there is an emergency or as required for legal purposes. 

Can caregiver access to patient information be revoked? 

Yes. 

What is the purpose of an EHR?

It stores and manages patient information electronically.