M-Health Technology as a Transforming Force for Population Health

Abstract

Information and communication technologies in health practices are known as mobile health. Mobile health (m-Health) is the use of portable electronic devices for mobile voice or data communication over a cellular or other wireless network of base stations to provide health information. Evidence suggests that the use of m-health offers new opportunities for population health. However, resistance to m-health among health professionals is considered to be a main barrier. Evidence shows that m-Health technology would grant patients the long-term support needed during treatment without jeopardizing patient autonomy. The practice of m-health requires a rethinking of the existing frames of reference and adoption of new frames of reference in health practice. This chapter is a descriptive study in which a quantitative technique was used to collect data. The study shows the potential scale and impact of m-health in accelerating the rate of patient education. Healthcare providers can maximize the benefits of electronic tools by educating themselves to better understand the potential uses, challenges, and benefits.