inTouch Program Cleared for Use Without a Prescription

Two major trends in healthcare are the shift toward wireless devices and the use of incentives to promote healthy living. SymCare’s inTouch-diabetes program integrates both of these trends. Participants with this program, which is organized through an employer or insurance provider, submit blood glucose readings to the inTouch website via their cell phone. The site then integrates their blood sugar measurements with other laboratory results as well as dietary goals. Using this data, participants can monitor trends with their diabetes, and nurse coaches can explain the results and offer suggestions on what the next steps might be. In addition, participants are encouraged to effectively manage their diabetes with an incentive program through Amazon.com. Until February 2010, people with diabetes needed a prescription to sign up for inTouch-diabetes. But now, the FDA has cleared the program for those without prescriptions, broadening its availability. Although no prescription is needed, the program is only available through certain health insurance plans and employers. To learn more about SymCare, visit their website at www.symcare.com. If it seems right for you, ask your employer! It could help them and you in the long run. --NW