Chronic conditions, like hypertension and Type II diabetes, can be costly. Not only does the expense of medication and visits to the doctor add up for patients, but time spent away from their jobs can be costly, too. According to the CDC, chronic conditions can also affect productivity. It is reported that chronic conditions can cost U.S. employers $36.4 billion per year due to employees missing days of work. That is why it is essential for organizations to provide opportunities for employees to manage chronic conditions – and digital health programs may be superior to traditional care alone. These digital programs allow employees to manage their conditions all the time, without having to take unnecessary time off from work and are resulting in better outcomes.

To make it easy for organizations to offer their employees high-quality, accessible care that meets them where they are, Ochsner has launched a suite of Employer Health Solutions. One such solution is Ochsner’s Digital Medicine program, which allows your employees and their dependents to manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure and Type II diabetes virtually. By offering members the tools they need to manage their chronic conditions digitally, coupled with the high touch support of a personalized care team, organizations are likely to boost productivity while keeping healthcare costs down.

Ochsner’s Digital Medicine program gives eligible members everything they need to manage their high blood pressure or Type II diabetes at home or work and includes (depending on condition):

• A blood pressure cuff and/or glucometer that automatically sends readings via their smartphone or tablet to their clinician and health coach.
• A dedicated clinician who monitors blood pressure or blood sugar readings and can adjust medications over the phone, as needed.
• A personal health coach who contacts the enrolled member and helps them take manageable steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
• Ongoing monthly reports, support tools and resources that help them stay on track.

By using this program consistently, data shows our enrolled hypertension and Type II diabetes patients gain remarkable control of their blood pressure and blood sugar – better than before they were in the program AND better than matched patients in traditional care programs. Click here to see our latest detailed statistics. This all leads employees to less sick time, less out of office time for doctor’s appointments, and better overall health. Enrollees have also reported feeling more engaged in their health and empowered by the ongoing support of their care team.