A new eHealth website, Pow Health, has launched in Ireland to help those suffering with long term illnesses monitor their condition, with a particular focus on multiple sclerosis (MS).
MS Ireland and Teva Pharma Ireland have give their backing to the site, which offers a range of trackers to help patients, carers and healthcare professionals assess individual health needs.
Sandra Gannon, general manager – Ireland for Teva, said: “The launch of Pow Health for Irish patients synchronises with the wider trend in healthcare where patients globally are increasingly encouraged to take greater personal control of their health. Developments in technology and eHealth initiatives in particular can actively facility such patient empowerment.
Tools on offer include trackers for treatments, symptoms, laboratory test results, blood pressure and weight, and results can be shared with medical professionals to ensure patients are receiving the most up-to-date and appropriate care.
Ifty Ahmed, founder and CEO of Pow Health, said: “By encouraging patients to become more efficient at tracking and monitoring changes in their health, doctors can get a more accurate and faster understanding of the patient’s experience of their condition and their quality of life.
“MS is a complex illness that needs a more rounded approach. Patients may need to manage hypertension or keep a symptom diary to track if particular foods, activities, weather or even their moods affect their symptoms.”
Research found that around 86% of Irish people with MS desired increased online services to not only help monitor their condition, but to engage with others impacted by MS. To address this, a social outlet has been incorporated into the website where those with MS, their carers and family members can engage online.
In addition to its focus on MS the website could also be used by patients with one of 11,000 other conditions to monitor their health records, track medications, set personal goals and monitor their overall wellbeing.
