Telehealth Technology for Asthma Management
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new telehealth tool, CANATEXTS, to help people with asthma manage their symptoms more effectively. The tool provides users with an electronic asthma action plan on their phones, along with weekly text reminders and support. The study will compare this method to the usual written plan to determine if it reduces asthma attacks and improves quality of life. It suits individuals with moderate or severe asthma who have experienced an attack in the past year and are comfortable using a smartphone or tablet. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative asthma management techniques and potentially enhance quality of life.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, since participants must be prescribed both reliever and controller medications, it seems likely that you will continue your current asthma medications.
What prior data suggests that this telehealth intervention is safe for asthma management?
Research has shown that CANATEXTS, a telehealth tool for managing asthma, is promising in terms of safety. In one study, participants using CANATEXTS had an 18% lower risk of asthma worsening compared to those who did not use it. This indicates the tool is both effective and safe.
CANATEXTS assists patients in managing their asthma by sending reminders and providing access to their asthma action plan on their phones. This digital approach reduces the need for doctor visits and offers more control from home. Studies have not reported any major side effects from using CANATEXTS.
Although the safety data is limited because CANATEXTS is not a medical drug or device, the positive results so far suggest it is well-tolerated and poses minimal risk. This is encouraging for those considering this technology to help manage their asthma.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the use of CANATEXTS for asthma management because it leverages telehealth technology in a way that traditional treatments do not. Unlike standard care, which typically involves written asthma action plans and in-person consultations, CANATEXTS offers an electronic asthma action plan accessible via a web link, coupled with weekly SMS check-ins. This approach allows patients to interact with their healthcare team directly through a two-way SMS feature, offering a more personalized and continuous management experience. By integrating technology, the hope is to improve patient adherence and outcomes, making asthma management more effective and convenient.
What evidence suggests that this telehealth intervention is effective for asthma management?
Research shows that CANATEXTS, a telehealth tool for managing asthma, is promising. In a previous study, patients using CANATEXTS had an 18% lower risk of asthma attacks compared to those using standard written plans. In this trial, participants in the intervention group will use CANATEXTS, which includes an electronic asthma action plan (eAAP) accessible on their phone and regular text message reminders. This technology helps people take their medication as prescribed and manage their asthma better. These findings suggest that telehealth could effectively improve asthma control and overall quality of life.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Chris Carlsten, M.D.
Principal Investigator
University of British Columbia
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with moderate or severe asthma who have had at least one exacerbation in the past year, are on both reliever and controller medications, and can use a digital device with internet. They must be able to communicate in English or French but cannot participate if they have COPD.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete baseline questionnaires and receive individualized action plans and education
Treatment
Participants receive either eAAP with weekly SMS reminders or wAAP with education for 12 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for asthma control and exacerbation history
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- CANATEXTS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of British Columbia
Lead Sponsor
Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute
Collaborator