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A smartphone app helping local Parkinson's patients monitor their symptoms has won a prestigious national award. The app, developed by Neu Health in partnership with East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), received the Health Service Journal's Digitising Patient Care Award.
Why it matters: The technology allows patients to track their Parkinson's symptoms from home, potentially reducing the need for hospital visits while giving healthcare professionals more detailed information about their condition.
The details: The app measures:
Voice changes
Walking ability and balance
Reaction time
Finger dexterity and speed
Rest and postural tremors
Local patients have been testing the technology over the past year as part of a pilot project supported by ESNEFT's Innovation Team, Health Innovation East and NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board (SNEE ICB).
What they're saying: "This is an example of people and teams coming together to make things happen for patients," said Sheeba Suresh, Parkinson's advanced clinical practitioner at ESNEFT. "Technologies like this are the future, and we need to make the most of these advancements in patient care."
Suresh praised the developers' responsiveness to feedback, adding: "Neu Health has been exceptional through the whole process, listening to feedback and making amendments to the app. It's been a great resource for patients and an easy thing to introduce."
The bottom line: The successful pilot project and national award recognition demonstrate how technology can enhance care for local Parkinson's patients.
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