The key to self-management of respiratory diseases: Embracing appropriate digital health technologies

Self management of respiratory diseases is widely discussed in the literature and is strongly advocated for within guidlines(1). Evidence suggests that digital health technologies (DHT) increases patients awarness of their condition, reduces hospital admissions and improves communication with healthcare professionals (2); therefore provides a concrete foundation towards successful self-management ;however, little is known about the patients perspectives. There is a marked knowledge gap between regulatory approved DHTs and evidence-based published studies from end user perspective. <bold>Objective:</bold> To explore perceptions, beliefs, barriers, and cues-to-action that underpin the motivation to self-manage a chronic respiratory disease among a cohort of irish patients underpinning the potential use of DHT. <bold>Methods:</bold> An exploratory sequential mixed-methods design was undertaken in the ROI. <bold>Results:</bold> 63.7% (n=37) voiced interest in using DHT. 50% (n=29) reported that DHT would empower them to take control of their disese; 52% (n=30) believed that DHT would help them stay out of hospital. 55%(n=24) felt the appearance was important and 88%(n=45) felt that health data feedback was a priority. 14%(n=17) had no concerns regarding sharing of health data;40%(n=19) were not concerned about the security. <bold>Conlusion:</bold> Self-management of respiratory diseases are associated with lower probability of respiratory related hospital admissions and improved quality of life (3); however patients often lack the confidence and support to trust the percieved value. DHT is an underutilised tool that could change how self managment is percieved, thus potentially contribute to reduced hospital admissions, improved symptoms and QOL.