Technology and care for patients with chronic conditions: The chronic care model as a framework for the integration of ICT

Abstract

Worldwide, healthcare systems are considered unsustainable due to an increase in demand for care and an associated rise in healthcare costs. Ageing of societies and the growth of populations with chronic conditions are making a paradigm shift in western healthcare systems necessary. The Chronic Care Model (CCM) provides a framework for healthcare change, including a prominent role for the community and patients' self-management. Information and communication technology (ICT) is indispensable to accomplish the model's objectives. The role of ICT in the provision of care is discussed as an opportunity to facilitate the application of the CCM and improve healthcare in general. © 2012 IFIP International Federation for Information Processing.