Frequently Asked Questions

Will this add to my workload?
No. Just the opposite. With the Health Buddy Program, a care manager can monitor dozens of your patients within minutes and help you prioritize those who need your attention the most. You will have access to current information on exactly how a patient is doing, so you can intervene early when necessary and prevent time-consuming, dangerous and costly acute care situations.

How will this affect my relationship with my patients?
In similar programs, patients have reported that they feel closer to their provider when using the Health Buddy appliance. They feel empowered with the information the Health Buddy appliance provides, and assured knowing that they are being monitored and that you or a care manager will get in touch with them if necessary.

How do I get started?
You will be given the information and support you need to introduce and recommend the program to your eligible patients during their regularly scheduled appointments. If an eligible patient does not already have an appointment scheduled with you, a care manager will contact the patient directly. Once enrolled in the Health Buddy Program the patient will be supported and monitored by a care manager throughout the set-up and the duration of the Health Buddy program. There is no cost to you or your patients for participation.

How will I know which of my patients can participate?
You will be provided with a list of your patients eligible for the program. Patients will be sent a letter of introduction, which they may share with you. Please encourage them to participate.

When would I get started?
Enrollment for the program will begin in February 2006 and the program will last through at least the end of January 2009.

Will it be appropriate for my patients' conditions?
The Health Buddy Program offers a broad range of personalized health management programs, as well as tools you can use to adapt the programs to a wide range of needs and conditions. The Health Buddy Program will focus on patients with congestive heart failure, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

What if my patients are resistant to technology?
The Health Buddy appliance was designed with patients in mind. Its large screen is easy to read and the four oversized buttons are easy even for unsteady hands to push. It simply connects to a phone line, so they don't need to use a computer or understand any technical requirements. In addition, patients who cannot or will not use the Health Buddy appliance may be followed through outbound phone calls from care managers.

Who will monitor the patient responses?
Care managers will monitor the patient responses on the secure website 5 day a week, excluding holidays. They will alert you if any patient appears to need intervention. You will also have access to all patient data on an ongoing basis, so you can check up on patients at any time.