Chronic conditions have long been contributors to poor health. In addition, more individuals these days are living with multiple conditions. This has created an increasing need for ways to cohesively manage chronic conditions. In this spotlight, learn how members can achieve better chronic condition care with Livongo Whole Person Plus by Teladoc Health®. From one platform, it’s possible to address multiple conditions, improve health and get a streamlined experience.
How common are chronic conditions?
Chronic conditions (illnesses that require ongoing care) are increasingly common. Currently, they affect about 133 million Americans, or about half the population1. By the year 2030, this number could reach 170 million2. Additionally, nearly one in four people are diagnosed with multiple conditions. This includes illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity and hypertension.
Why the steady rise? One factor is likely connected to lifestyle choices. Things such as smoking, alcohol use, poor nutrition and physical inactivity are all linked to developing certain chronic conditions. Diseases may also start to appear more regularly as people age and simply live longer.
Understanding links to higher costs
For decades, chronic condition care has been a leading cost driver for employers and plan sponsors.
But how do chronic diseases drive higher costs? Managing ongoing illnesses often requires more medical care to maintain quality of life and avoid complications. This higher usage of medical services can add up. According to the CDC, approximately 90 percent of health care costs in the U.S. is devoted to managing chronic diseases and mental health care.
Why integrated care is important
So, how can solutions like Livongo Whole Person Plus help? This comprehensive chronic condition management platform addresses multiple chronic conditions in a single integrated experience. Members must have a qualifying condition to participate. These include type 1 or 2 diabetes, prediabetes and hypertension.
How does the program work? Users can track everything related to their conditions in one place. Tools are integrated into the platform. Plus, members receive personalized insights to help them reach their goals. Connected devices also ease the monitoring of health conditions through the use of technology.
Things such as blood glucose monitors, weight scales and blood pressure monitors are a big help to members. Finally, access to expert coaches provides support and leads members toward making healthier lifestyle changes.
In short, benefits of the program include a unified experience with access to elements from other Livongo trusted programs.
How can you get started?
This one’s easy. If you’re ready to learn more, ask your Meritain Health® representative about Livongo Whole Person Plus. They can help you get started and understand how the program supports dyslipidemia, weight management and behavioral health.
Sources
1,2 www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/data-research/facts
www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/about
