A new study shows that heart patients who use e-mail and telephones to keep in touch with their physicians have a considerably lower risk of future heart attacks. Photo Credit: AFP/File Frederic J. BrownJuly 01, 2009, (Sawf News) - A new study shows that heart patients who use e-mail and telephones to keep in touch with their physicians have a considerably lower risk of future heart attacks.
Patients can use these technologies to speak to a doctor or a nurse and ask questions or clarify any doubts they have about their treatment and condition. Minor health concerns with medication or diet can be swiftly addressed through these means.
Researchers in Australia examined 11 studies that involved over 3000 patients to see if telecommunication could actually improve their health.
The study showed that patients who actively took control of their condition by keeping in touch with their healthcare provider, either by phone or the internet, were able to lower their cholesterol, their blood pressure and even reduce the amount they smoked. They also increased their physical activity levels as well and worked on their overall well being.
A major health condition such as heart disease requires patients to play an active role in maintaining good health and diet. Modern technologies such as emails and phone calls are convenient as they can help busy patients avoid wasting time in going to the doctor's office and then having to wait for long hours to be seen.
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