MOBILE PHONE TEXT MESSAGING TO IMPROVE COMPLIANCE IN DIABETIC PATIENTS

Introduction and Objective: Treatment adherence in chronically ill patients is difficult in clinical practice and poses a continuous challenge. It is well documented that most diabetic patients do not achieve glycemic targets due partially to not taking medication correctly. The aim of this project is to improve adhesion to medication using mobile information technology (SMS, WhatsApp, text messaging, etc.) in patients with uncontrolled diabetes. Methods: Through an interventional prospective study of interrupted time series design, we will use IT programs to implement mobile text messaging and augment the patient’s compliance to treatment. Patients from the city of Campinas, SP with text messaging capable mobile phones were enrolled in the study. They will receive personalized appointment reminders via text message for medication timing. Efficacy of mobile text messaging for patient adherence will be tracked for 90 days using the following parameters: fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin and urine micro-albumin in addition to answering a set of questions. Results and Conclusions: A total of 30 diabetic patients were screened and 19 (63%) have access to a mobile device capable of receiving messages. From this total, 15 (84%) are familiar with mobile text messaging systems and will continue the assessment. This project should provide a simple, inexpensive and accessible methodology to increase adherence rates of diabetic patients to the prescribed medication schedule. This study may have a positive impact on behavior and motivation in respect to adherence and compliance to the prescribed treatment.