Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have discovered that a telecare intervention program, known as ADAPT (Advanced Disease Management with Palliative Care Targeted to Symptom Type), results in persistent improvements in depression, anxiety, and quality of life for individuals managing chronic illnesses. The findings, published in JAMA, specifically examined the impact of the ADAPT program on veterans dealing with chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure (HF), and interstitial lung disease (ILD).
The ADAPT program utilizes telecare, delivered through phone-based interactions. It involves structured questions and assistance provided by nurses and social workers, with a team of doctors offering follow-up calls to address concerns and track progress. The study aimed to observe the influence of this telecare intervention on veterans experiencing poor quality of life due to existing chronic illnesses.
Dr. David Bekelman, the lead author of the study and a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, highlighted the need for additional support in improving the quality of life for patients managing chronic illnesses. He emphasized that while traditional care focuses on treating the illnesses themselves, addressing persistent symptoms like depression, anxiety, shortness of breath, and sleep problems is crucial for enhancing overall well-being.
The ADAPT program demonstrated early, persistent, and clinically meaningful improvements in depression, anxiety, and quality of life for adults with COPD, HF, or ILD who were at high risk of hospitalization and death. The positive results were notable, lasting for many months after the conclusion of the four-month program. The findings suggest that structured telecare interventions can have a lasting impact on the well-being of individuals managing chronic illnesses.
Dr. Bekelman emphasized the importance of filling the gaps in care and providing more comprehensive support for patients experiencing persistent symptoms despite receiving various treatments. The innovative team care model of the ADAPT program is adaptable and scalable, offering a potential solution to improve the lives of individuals living with chronic conditions.
In summary, the ADAPT telecare intervention program has shown promising results in improving the mental health and overall quality of life for individuals dealing with chronic illnesses, providing valuable insights into scalable approaches for enhancing patient care.
