Overview

The AHOMKA platform, a mobile application designed for patient-to-provider communication, has shown promising results in managing blood pressure among patients at high risk for heart attacks or strokes. This initiative is a collaboration between the School of Engineering and prominent medical institutions in Ghana.

Key Findings

• Participants in an eight-week study experienced a reduction in average blood pressure from 139/87 mmHg to 126/83 mmHg.
• Over 70% of participants used the app weekly to monitor their blood pressure, with data shared directly with their healthcare providers.

Challenges in Healthcare Access

According to Valencia Koomson, a senior author and associate professor, Ghana faces significant healthcare challenges, including:

• A high patient-to-physician ratio, with up to 7,000 patients per doctor.
• Concentration of 80% of doctors in just five regions, limiting access for rural populations.

App Development Goals

The AHOMKA app was designed to be:

• Accessible to individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Functional without an internet connection.
• Cost-effective for users.

Educational Component

The app not only tracks blood pressure but also aims to improve health literacy among users. Koomson emphasized the importance of addressing the stigma associated with hypertension, encouraging participants to learn more about their condition.

Technical Features

Developed for Android devices, the AHOMKA app works in conjunction with a blood pressure cuff to store data without requiring Wi-Fi. The project was supported by Medtronic, a health technology company.

Patient Feedback

Follow-up surveys indicated positive experiences among users:

• Participants appreciated the convenience of remote monitoring, which reduced the need for clinic visits.
• Doctors received more accurate data, as anxiety from in-person visits can lead to inflated blood pressure readings.

Future Developments

As the trial expands beyond the initial 27 patients, plans include:

1. Compatibility with multiple mobile operating systems.
2. Integration of AI chatbots for health inquiries.
3. Text messaging features for users without smartphones.
4. Support for managing other health conditions, such as sickle-cell disease.

Conclusion

The AHOMKA app represents a significant advancement in digital health, particularly in regions with limited medical resources. By providing a user-friendly platform for hypertension management, it has the potential to improve patient outcomes across Ghana and beyond.