Innovative project at ULSTMAD reduces hospital admissions and improves patients’ quality of life.
The Pulmonology Service of the Local Health Unit of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (ULSTMAD) launched in April 2024 an innovative telemonitoring project aimed at patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), with the aim of mitigating discharge prevalence and severity of this health condition.
COPD, which affects around 14% of the Portuguese population, is one of the main causes of mortality worldwide. At ULSTMAD, it results in approximately 60 hospitalizations per year due to exacerbations of this condition.
The telemonitoring project, led by the Respiratory Rehabilitation team of the Pulmonology Service, aims to transform the management of this disease, focusing on the daily monitoring of patients’ respiratory symptoms and vital signs. This allows personalized and continuous adjustments to treatment, ensuring a quick and effective therapeutic response.
According to ULSTMAD, the program not only significantly reduces hospital admissions and the use of health services, but also strengthens the bond between patients and health professionals, providing closer and more attentive monitoring.
https://www.sns.gov.pt/noticias/2024/05/02/telemonitorizacao-para-pacientes-com-dpoc/
