Conference Coverage
Computer program calls parents when asthma scrips run low
Major finding: A computer program that links electronic medical records and speech recognition software automatically calls parents when the child...
SAN DIEGO – Dr. Bruce Bender of National Jewish Health, Denver, and his colleagues have created an electronic medical records system that reaches out and talks to patients, with the help of speech recognition software. The system notices when kids are due for a new asthma inhaler, and it automatically calls parents to help them order a new one. Over 2 years, it improved asthma inhaler adherence by 25%, without physicians having to lift a finger.
In a video interview, Dr. Bender shared his thoughts about the project at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, and he discussed its potential for conditions beyond asthma.