Digilego: A standardized analytics-driven consumer-oriented connected health framework

Abstract

Connected health solutions provide novel pathways to provide integrated and affordable care. Emerging research suggests these connected tools can result improved health outcomes and sustainable self-health management. However, current health technology frameworks limit flexibility, engagement, and reusability of underlying connected health components. The objective of this paper is to develop a data-driven consumer engagement framework, which we call Digilego, to facilitate development of connected health solutions that are targeted, modular, extensible, and engaging. The major components include social media analysis, patient engagement features, and behavioral intervention technologies. We propose implementation of these Digilego components using FHIR specification such that the resulting technology is compliant to industry standards. We apply and evaluate the proposed framework to characterize four individual building blocks (DigiMe, DigiSocial, DigiConnect, DigiEHR) for a connected health solution that is responsive to cancer survivor needs. Results indicate that the framework (a) allows identification of survivor needs (e.g. social integration, treatment side effects) through semi-automated social media analysis, (b) facilitates infusion of engagement elements (e.g. smart health trackers, integrated electronic health records), and (c) integrates behavior change constructs into the design architecture of survivorship applications (e.g. goal setting, emotional coping). End user evaluation with 16 cancer survivors indicated general user acceptance and enthusiasm to adopt the solution for self-care management. Implications for design of patient-engaging chronic disease management solutions are discussed.